PCOS, irregular periods, and acne: a female OB/GYN in Sinnonhyeon/Banpo/Gangnam explains the connection

If you've been diagnosed with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and feel overwhelmed, there's no need to worry excessively. PCOS is one of the most common hormone-related conditions encountered in obstetrics and gynecology. Consistent management, considering both internal structure and external environment, can help stabilize your menstrual cycle and overall well-being.

In this article, we will calmly explain why irregular periods, acne, and weight changes often appear together, and what tests and management approaches are typically taken in the clinic.

What is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)?

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) refers to a condition where ovulation does not occur regularly, and multiple small follicles are observed in the ovaries. It is understood as a hormonal metabolic disorder where an imbalance of female and male hormones leads to various accompanying symptoms.

Let's address a common misconception.

The expression that the ovaries are 'full of cysts' is not accurate. Even if there are many follicles, the core issue lies in the fact that ovulation does not occur smoothly.

What are the warning signs to look out for?

Symptoms vary in combination and severity from person to person, and not all of the following items need to be present.

• Menstrual cycle irregularities, such as cycles longer than 35 days, skipping periods for two or three months, amenorrhea (absence of periods), or oligomenorrhea (infrequent periods)
• Adult acne, sudden weight gain, changes in fat distribution primarily around the abdomen
• Increased body hair on the chin, chest, or lower abdomen, and thinning hair on the crown of the head
• Irregular ovulation leading to difficulty conceiving

If these signs recur, it is safer to confirm the cause through a consultation for irregular periods and menstrual disorders rather than self-diagnosis.

What causes it?

In clinical practice, it is rare for PCOS to be explained by a single cause. Instead, it is reported that multiple factors interact complexly.

• Increased insulin resistance
• Abnormal fat metabolism
• Genetic and environmental factors
• Stress, lack of sleep, weight changes

It is particularly known that increased insulin resistance can lead to a rise in male hormones in the ovaries, which in turn can repeatedly make ovulation more difficult. Therefore, it is important not to view it merely as a menstrual issue, but to consider overall metabolism.

If you're hesitant about when to seek medical attention, you can comfortably discuss your symptoms first by choosing Consult Now.

How is it diagnosed?

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is considered when two or more of the following three criteria are met:

In the clinic, a comprehensive diagnosis is made by checking blood hormone panels, ovarian ultrasound, and menstrual patterns together. If you wish to assess your overall condition, you might also consider a well-woman checkup.

Why is management important?

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is not merely about irregular periods. If left unmanaged for a long time, it is reported to be associated with the following:

• Potential difficulty in conceiving
• Association with risks of obesity, fatty liver, and hyperlipidemia
• Increased risk of diabetes
• Association with changes leading to thickening of the uterine lining

For these reasons, rather than a one-time check-up, ongoing management that periodically tracks your condition and refines your lifestyle can be beneficial.

Management approaches in the clinic

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is not a condition with a single, fixed solution. The approach varies depending on weight, menstrual pattern, pregnancy plans, and hormone levels.

• Menstrual cycle regulation: If ovulation is absent, the uterine lining can thicken. When necessary, progestin hormone therapy is used to regulate the cycle.
• Pregnancy preparation: If you are planning to conceive, ovulation is monitored using ovulation induction drugs and ultrasound tracking. If you are preparing for pregnancy, it is advisable to undergo a comprehensive check-up through pre-pregnancy care.
• Improvement of insulin resistance: If necessary, medication and dietary changes are combined.
• Management of skin and body hair changes: The approach is tailored to your hormonal status, and skin care may be considered if needed.

Treatment directions vary greatly from person to person, so it is most accurate to determine a plan suitable for your specific situation through a medical consultation.

Lifestyle management is half the battle

What we always emphasize in the clinic is lifestyle habits. The following changes can help stabilize your hormonal environment:

• Maintain a regular lifestyle and get enough sleep. Lack of sleep can affect ovulation function.
• Reduce refined carbohydrates and switch to a diet centered on protein and dietary fiber.
• Exercise 3 to 4 times a week for more than 30 minutes. Combining strength training is reported to help improve insulin resistance.

Even reducing weight within a reasonable range is reported to show positive changes in ovulation recovery, though individual results may vary.

Blanc OB/GYN's management approach

At Blanc OB/GYN, we emphasize consistent follow-up and systematic management that goes beyond a single examination.

• Confirm current status with hormone tests
• Check follicle and ovarian changes with ovarian ultrasound
• Conduct ovulation tracking when there is a pregnancy plan
• Provide concurrent counseling on weight, nutrition, and lifestyle habits
• Propose a long-term management plan tailored to individual conditions

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is common, but if left untreated, it can affect various aspects of health. If you've postponed a check-up due to ambiguous symptoms, we recommend starting with a no-pressure consultation.

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Chief Director Lee Eun-jin (Samsung Medical Center OB/GYN Specialist, Member of Korean Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Member of Korean Society of Menopause) Chief Director Lee Eun-jin's Profile First Published 2025-11-19 / Last Reviewed 2026-06-17

This article is for general informational purposes only. Symptoms and treatment responses may vary individually. For accurate diagnosis and treatment, please consult with an OB/GYN specialist.