Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a condition which can affect a woman’s menstrual cycle, fertility, hormones and her long-term health. Polycystic ovaries are slightly larger than normal ovaries and have twice the number of follicles (small cysts). Polycystic ovaries affect over 20 per cent of women and around 6 to 7 per cent of women with polycystic ovaries have PCOS, explained Dr Namita Pawar, Specialist Gynaecologist, Zulekha Hospital, Sharjah. The symptoms of PCOS can include: Irregular periods or no periods at all Difficulty becoming pregnant (reduced fertility) Having more facial or body hair than usual (hirutism) Loss of scalp hair Being overweight, rapid increase in weight, difficulty losing weight Oily skin, acne Depression and mood swings The cause of PCOS is not yet known. The symptoms of PCOS are related to abnormal levels of testosterone and insulin, she added. Almost 10–20 per cent women with PCOS develop diabetes at some time and this risk is increased further if you are over 40 years of age, have relatives with diabetes The following tips are helpful for the management of the syndrome Women should adopt a healthy lifestyle. Eat a healthy balanced diet — more fruit, vegetables, whole foods, lean meat, fish and chicken and less sugar, salt, caffeine and alcohol. Eat meals regularly including breakfast Regular workouts (30 minutes at least three times a week). Also have regular health checks? for blood pressure, sugar and cho-lesterol levels check and a pelvic scan. There is no cure for PCOS. Medical treatments aim to manage and reduce the symptoms or consequences of having PCOS. The symptoms and long-term health risks of PCOS can be successfully managed without medical intervention by eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Khaleej Times