More Than Just Missed Periods: Understanding PCOS

At just 29, Champa is a young woman full of dreams. She hopes to one day open her own salon, build a happy family, and live a fulfilling life. But during a routine visit to the Healthy Lifestyle Clinic—urged by her mother to “just check her sugar and cholesterol”—Champa received news that made her pause and rethink her habits.

Her weight and height revealed a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 34, placing her in the obese category. Yet, she felt healthy and had no major complaints. A closer look at her lifestyle told another story—her days were spent mostly sitting, her diet rich in rice, sweets, and short eats. Even short distances were covered on her scooter.

When asked about her menstrual cycle, Champa couldn’t recall her last period. She explained that her periods had always been irregular and delayed. On examination, her doctor noticed other clues—dark patches around her neck, extra hair on her tummy and underarms—signs of hormonal imbalance and insulin resistance, both of which can increase the risk of diabetes.

Her blood pressure and cholesterol were thankfully normal, but the docto suspected something deeper. An ultrasound scan confirmed it: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS).

What is PCOS?

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal condition affecting many young women today. In PCOS, the ovaries—responsible for releasing eggs each month—produce excess male hormones (testosterone). This causes multiple small cysts to form in the ovaries, and the normal cycle of egg release gets disrupted.

The result?

●      Irregular or absent periods

●      Weight gain and difficulty losing weight

●      Increased hair growth on the face or body

●      Darkened skin patches (especially around the neck and underarms)

●      Acne and oily skin

●      Difficulty conceiving (subfertility)

PCOS is not just about irregular periods—it’s linked to insulin resistance, which can lead to type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and even womb (endometrial) problems later in life.

The Good News: It’s Manageable

With the right lifestyle changes, PCOS can be managed effectively.

Champa was advised to:

Lose weight through a balanced diet—less fried food, sugary drinks, and refined carbs. Follow the “Smart Plate” method—half filled with vegetables, a quarter with whole grains, and a quarter with lean protein.

Exercise regularly—at least 150 minutes of brisk walking per week plus two sessions of strength training. 

Use her scooter less and walk more—even short walks make a big difference.

In some cases, doctors prescribe oral contraceptive pills to regulate menstrual cycles and reduce hormonal imbalance. For women who wish to conceive, special fertility treatments may be needed under a gynaecologist’s care.

Six Months Later

After six months of effort, Champa’s story turned hopeful again. She lost weight, bringing her BMI down to 30, and her menstrual cycles began to regularize. More importantly, she felt healthier, more energetic, and confident about her future.

The Takeaway

PCOS is becoming increasingly common among young Sri Lankan women, often linked to lifestyle habits. But early detection and simple lifestyle adjustments can make a world of difference.

If you notice irregular periods, unwanted hair growth, or weight gain, don’t ignore it. Visit your doctor for an assessment. Like Champa, you too can take control of your health—and your dreams—before it’s too late.