As the world marks PCOS Awareness Month this September, Orchid Fertility Dubai is urging women to take a closer look at the signs of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), a condition that often goes undiagnosed despite its widespread prevalence. Affected by this hormonal disorder, an estimated 10–15% of women globally face challenges related to fertility and overall health.
High rate of undiagnosed cases
PCOS is one of the leading causes of infertility, with studies showing that nearly 70% of women living with the condition remain unaware of it. The disorder can make it difficult for women to conceive naturally due to irregular ovulation. PCOS symptoms, which include irregular periods, weight gain, acne, excessive hair growth, and thinning hair, are often mistaken for everyday health issues, leading many women to delay seeking a diagnosis.
Dr. Partha Sarathi Das, Deputy Director and Consultant in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility at Orchid Fertility, emphasized the importance of early detection: “Too many women dismiss the signs or delay seeking help until it’s too late. PCOS doesn’t just affect fertility — it can affect a woman’s entire life. The earlier we diagnose, the more options we can give her to protect her health and her ability to have children.”
Fertility care options for women with PCOS
While there is no permanent cure for PCOS, fertility treatments such as ovulation induction, intrauterine insemination (IUI), and in vitro fertilization (IVF) can provide women with viable options for pregnancy. Lifestyle changes and dietary management can also help manage the condition and improve outcomes.
Dr. Das shared the story of a patient in Dubai who struggled with PCOS for decades before seeking help at Orchid Fertility. In her early 40s, after years of unsuccessful attempts to conceive, she turned to IVF. “At that age, fertility is already on the decline. When you add PCOS to the picture, the chances of conceiving naturally become very slim,” Dr. Das explained. However, with the help of IVF, the patient not only achieved a successful pregnancy but also froze healthy embryos for future use. Now, at 44, she is considering expanding her family using the embryos preserved earlier.
Broader health implications
Beyond fertility, PCOS is linked to several other serious health risks, including diabetes, heart disease, fatty liver, and certain types of cancer. Managing the condition early on can reduce the long-term impact on a woman’s overall health and well-being.
Dr. Das urges more open discussions about fertility options and treatment pathways for women with PCOS. “It’s not just a treatment — it’s hope, it’s choice, and it’s about saving women from years of emotional exhaustion,” he said.
Orchid Fertility’s approach emphasizes the importance of personalized care, offering tailored solutions to women facing fertility challenges due to PCOS. Early diagnosis and intervention are key to improving the chances of successful treatment and protecting long-term health.
