Could You Have PCOS Without Knowing It?
PCOS is one of the most common hormonal conditions in women — and one of the most frequently undiagnosed. It affects 1 in 10 women of reproductive age. Many live with symptoms for years without understanding what is causing them. Irregular or missing periods. Unexplained weight gain. Acne that won't clear. Excess hair growth. Difficulty conceiving. Fatigue. Mood changes. If any of these sound familiar — you are not imagining it. And you are not alone. PCOS occurs when a hormonal imbalance disrupts ovulation. The ovaries produce small follicles that do not fully develop, leading to irregular cycles and elevated androgen levels. Insulin resistance is often involved, which affects metabolism, energy and weight. The good news is that PCOS is manageable. With the right diagnosis and a personalised plan, most women with PCOS can protect their fertility, regulate their cycle and significantly improve their quality of life.
PCOS Does Not Have to Define Your Fertility Journey
Many women with PCOS go on to conceive naturally or with minimal support. Others need a more structured approach — ovulation induction, IVF, or targeted hormonal treatment. What matters most is getting an accurate diagnosis and a plan that is built around your body — not a standard protocol applied to everyone. Dr. Shefketova has extensive experience working with women with PCOS. She will explain your results clearly, answer your questions honestly and guide you through the options that are right for you specifically. The first step is understanding what is happening. Everything else follows from there.
What To Ask Your Doctor About PCOS
If you suspect PCOS, coming to your first appointment with clear questions makes a real difference.
Here is what matters most:
How is PCOS diagnosed — what tests do I need?
How is my fertility affected and what are my options?
What treatment is right for my specific situation?
Can I still get pregnant with PCOS?
How do I manage symptoms like weight gain, acne and hair growth?
Does PCOS increase my risk of other health conditions?
What lifestyle changes will actually make a difference?
You deserve clear, honest answers to every one of these questions — not a rushed appointment and a generic leaflet.
The Emotional Side of Living with PCOS
Many women with PCOS describe feeling dismissed — told their symptoms are normal, that they just need to lose weight, or that they should not worry about fertility yet.
You deserve better than that.
If you have been struggling with symptoms that nobody has properly explained, or if you are worried about what PCOS means for your future, a clear and honest consultation is the right first step.
