PCOS: when irregular periods keep recurring (Seocho-gu OB/GYN)

If your period is consistently late and acne worsens, it's easy to dismiss it as "just how it is." However, if irregular periods recur for several months, it's worth considering a check-up for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS).

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a female hormone-related condition where ovulation is not smooth, leading to disrupted menstrual cycles, and may be accompanied by irregular periods, acne, and increased body hair. Blanc OB/GYN provides menstrual disorder care for irregular periods, ovulation problems, and female hormone imbalances.

What is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome?

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome refers to a condition where multiple small follicles are observed in the ovaries, and ovulation does not occur smoothly. It is a relatively common condition among women of reproductive age, but in its early stages, it is often mistaken for simple poor condition or stress.

A normal ovary undergoes regular ovulation, maintaining a relatively consistent menstrual cycle. In contrast, polycystic ovaries show multiple small follicles and irregular ovulation, leading to an irregular menstrual cycle.

What are the Symptoms Most Frequently Heard in the Clinic?

In the clinic, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome often presents with a combination of several symptoms rather than just one. Patients frequently report the following symptoms:

• Disrupted cycles such as amenorrhea or irregular periods
• Worsened acne and skin troubles after becoming an adult
• Hirsutism (increased body hair)
• Weight gain or tendency towards obesity
• Difficulty conceiving when trying to get pregnant

The severity and combination of symptoms vary from person to person, and multiple symptoms may appear simultaneously. Due to significant individual differences, accurately assessing one's body condition is the first step.

If your period is irregular for two to three months or longer, or if acne and increased body hair suddenly become prominent, we recommend not overlooking it and getting a check-up.

How is the Diagnosis Made?

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is diagnosed comprehensively by considering both symptoms and test results. It is important not to make a definitive conclusion based on a single test, but to evaluate multiple pieces of information.

The cause of irregular periods may also lie elsewhere besides Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, so tests to pinpoint the exact cause can be helpful. If the tests feel vague, you can first ask about the examination process via chat.

How is Management Approached?

The management of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome varies depending on individual symptoms and lifestyle patterns. Rather than aiming for a definitive cure, the approach is to adjust hormone balance and lifestyle environment together to control symptoms.

• Weight management through improved eating habits and lifestyle. In some cases, ovulation has been reported to resume with weight control alone.
• Medication to balance hormones and regulate the menstrual cycle.
• Oral contraceptives that can help alleviate symptoms and stabilize the menstrual cycle through hormone regulation.

All treatments vary depending on individual conditions, so it is advisable to determine the method suitable for you after consulting with an OB/GYN specialist. If you are preparing for pregnancy, pre-pregnancy care or pregnancy preparation stage consultation, which also considers ovulation recovery, may be combined.

Why is Consistent Management Necessary?

It is reported that prolonged neglect of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome can lead to infertility due to ovulation disorders, endometrial hyperplasia, and an increased risk of metabolic syndrome or diabetes. Therefore, early identification and consistent management are meaningful.

Rather than referring to it as a fundamental cure, a more realistic perspective is to continuously improve the hormone structure and living environment, which are prone to recurrence. Even small, consistent changes can help reduce daily discomfort.

When Should I Consider a Consultation?

You might consider an OB/GYN consultation if you experience any of the following:

• If your period is irregularly delayed for two to three months or longer
• If acne or increased body hair suddenly becomes severe
• If you are trying to conceive but ovulation is not occurring smoothly
• If menstrual problems are accompanied by weight gain

If you have postponed check-ups, you can refer to the guidance for those who have postponed check-ups, or you can check your overall condition through a general consultation.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is a condition that, when identified and managed early, can be controlled without significant daily discomfort. Rather than dismissing it as a simple menstrual issue, accurately understanding your current body condition is the beginning of women's health management.

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Eun-jin Lee, Chief Director (Specialized in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Samsung Medical Center, Regular Member of the Korean Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Regular Member of the Korean Society of Menopause) Dr. Eun-jin Lee's Profile First published 2026-01-15 / Last reviewed 2026-06-17

This content is for general informational purposes and individual differences may exist. Please confirm accurate diagnosis and treatment through consultation with an OB/GYN specialist.