Exhaustion, irregular periods, sudden weight gain and persistent acne — these signs are often dismissed as ‘just part of life.’ For a female student balancing studies and part-time work, or a mother managing a household from dawn to dusk, enduring discomfort becomes routine. Yet what if these symptoms refuse to subside? What if they are not simply stress or fatigue? What if they signify something deeper?
Enter Polycystic Ovary Syndrome — a common, yet frequently overlooked condition affecting countless women across Bangladesh.
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Misconceptions, cultural pressures
PCOS is often misunderstood, shrouded by myths and cultural assumptions. Women are told, ‘just lose weight and it will disappear,’ or ‘avoid dairy,’ or even, ‘get married early, and it will be resolved.’ Such advice not only sows confusion but delays proper diagnosis and treatment. Particularly troubling is the suggestion of early marriage as a ‘cure.’ This places undue pressure on young women, while the underlying hormonal imbalance remains unaddressed.
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Understanding PCOS
PCOS rarely presents with a single, obvious sign. Instead, it manifests through a variety of subtle symptoms, which are easily overlooked. A young woman in college may notice missed periods, persistent acne, or chronic fatigue. Others may struggle with unwanted hair growth or difficulty losing weight despite consistent exercise. Often dismissed as mere ‘stress’ or ‘normal hormonal changes,’ these indicators, collectively, warrant serious attention.
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PCOS v ovarian cysts
A COMMON misunderstanding in Bangladesh is conflating PCOS with a simple ovarian cyst. Though both involve the ovaries, they are distinct conditions:
PCOS is a hormonal disorder that may cause multiple small cysts, irregular cycles, acne, excess hair growth and weight challenges.
Ovarian cysts are typically temporary, rarely disrupt hormones or cycles, and often resolve independently.
Management differs significantly: while cysts may occasionally require surgical intervention, PCOS demands long-term strategies, including lifestyle adjustments, medical supervision and sometimes medication.
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Harm of myths
FOLLOWING unproven remedies can exacerbate the condition. For instance, eliminating carbohydrates entirely may lead to fatigue and worsen hormonal imbalance. Avoiding dairy unnecessarily can compromise bone and muscle health. Fixating solely on weight loss may induce stress or disordered eating. Above all, adherence to myths delays proper care, prolonging suffering.
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Managing PCOS
THE positive news is that PCOS is manageable. A balanced diet rich in fibre, lean proteins, and healthy fats can stabilise blood sugar and reduce inflammation. Regular exercise, sufficient sleep, and stress management are essential to hormonal balance. Medications may also assist in regulating periods, enhancing fertility and addressing metabolic concerns.
Local foods such as leafy greens, lentils, fish, eggs and nuts provide vital nutrients. While awareness and medical support are gradually improving, much remains to be done. Families and communities can play a crucial role by encouraging women to seek medical advice, supporting them emotionally, and dismantling the stigma surrounding reproductive and hormonal health.
If you experience irregular periods, fatigue, unwanted hair growth, or sudden weight changes, understand that your health is important. These are not mere normal consequences of a busy life, they are signals that deserve attention. By seeking knowledge, dispelling myths and taking informed action, women can reclaim control over their health, energy and lives. Empowering women to prioritise their well-being benefits not only themselves but also strengthens families and communities, fostering a healthier, more informed society for all.
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Dr Tasnim Ferdous, an MBBS graduate from USTC, is a researcher.