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Reviewed for scientific accuracy by: Dr. Mona Bungum
Last reviewed: February 2026
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takes 3 minutes to complete00:00:01 Welcome to this video series on polycystic ovarian syndrome or PCOS. My name is Julia Young and I'm a registered nutritional therapist specializing in fertility. PCOS is a common condition affecting around 1 in 10 women, and while it can feel overwhelming understanding, it is the first step to managing it. In this video series, we'll explore the common symptoms of PCOS, the different types of the condition, how it can affect fertility, and what you should do if you how it can affect fertility, and what you should do if you
00:00:32 think you might have it. So what exactly is PCOS? Well, it's a common endocrine disorder in women that disrupts ovarian function. Now the name can be a bit confusing. While it refers to cysts, these aren't typical cysts, but actually small follicles that don't fully develop and they get stuck in the ovaries. PCOS is a syndrome, meaning it's a collection of symptoms, not a single disease. So some of the common symptoms include weight gain or
00:00:57 So some of the common symptoms include weight gain or difficulty maintaining weight. Excess hair growth, especially on the face or other areas of the body. Male pattern baldness or hair thinning. Acne. Irregular or absent periods and having a higher risk of developing diabetes. Now, many of these symptoms are driven by hormonal imbalances, especially in excess of androgens, which are hormones more commonly associated with male traits like testosterone.
00:01:27 This hormonal imbalance can disrupt ovulation, making it more difficult This hormonal imbalance can disrupt ovulation, making it more difficult to have regular menstrual cycles. Now let's talk about fertility. PCOS doesn't mean you can't get pregnant, but it can make conceiving more challenging. Women with PCOS often have irregular or absent periods, which means fewer opportunities to ovulate and become pregnant. PCOS is linked to elevated levels of luteinizing hormone and reduced follicle stimulating hormone,
00:01:56 of luteinizing hormone and reduced follicle stimulating hormone, alongside elevated androgens and insulin resistance. This hormonal imbalance makes it harder for the eggs in the ovaries to mature properly, which can lead to irregular or absent ovulation. Now, if you're not ovulating regularly, it reduces the chance of pregnancy because it's harder to pinpoint when you're fertile. And additionally, prolonged exposure to high androgen levels and insulin resistance can affect egg quality, making it
00:02:26 even more difficult to conceive. Now, PCOS is a complex condition, even more difficult to conceive. Now, PCOS is a complex condition, and there are actually different types of PCOS. While insulin resistance is the most common cause present in about 70 to 80% of cases, there are other forms of PCOS. Two. So here are the main types. So insulin resistance PCOS, the most common form where the body becomes resistant to insulin leading to higher insulin and blood sugar levels. Then you have post-pill PCOS.
00:02:59 This can happen after stopping birth control pills, though it This can happen after stopping birth control pills, though it usually resolves itself over time. There's also inflammatory PCOS, which is linked to chronic inflammation, which can trigger hormone imbalances. And then you have adrenal PCOS caused by an overproduction of androgens by the adrenal glands, often due to stress. And in addition, thyroid and gut health can also play a significant role in the development of PCOS. It's not just about the ovaries,
00:03:27 it's about your whole body's health. So what to do if you suspect PCOS? it's about your whole body's health. So what to do if you suspect PCOS? Well, if you're experiencing some of the symptoms we discussed, like irregular periods, excess hair growth, or sudden weight gain, it's important to see your doctor for a full evaluation. A proper diagnosis is the first step. PCOS is typically diagnosed using what's called the Rotterdam criteria, and doctors look for two out of three signs. So multiple cysts or follicles in the
00:03:55 ovaries visible on an ultrasound, having irregular or absent periods ovaries visible on an ultrasound, having irregular or absent periods and elevated androgen levels. Your doctor may also run blood tests to check hormone levels, fasting glucose and insulin levels, and they may even assess cholesterol and triglycerides, as PCOS is a metabolic condition. Now there are treatment options available, both medical and lifestyle based. If you're trying to conceive medications, medications like Clomid
00:04:22 or letrozole can stimulate ovulation. Clomid, for example, blocks estrogen to encourage your body to release eggs. It can be effective, though there can be some side effects, It can be effective, though there can be some side effects, and there is an increased chance of multiple births with that one. Another common medication which is prescribed is metformin, which is known to improve insulin sensitivity. Sensitivity. However, it's not always suitable for lean women with PCOS and it
00:04:47 can affect gut health. The good news is that diet and lifestyle changes can make a huge difference in managing PCOS. Reducing your sugar intake, focusing on whole and processed foods and incorporating exercise can regulate, regulate insulin levels and some incorporating exercise can regulate, regulate insulin levels and some more, support hormone balance and improve fertility outcomes. Managing PCOS is a lifelong journey. While symptoms can be reversed or managed when women with PCOS are all susceptible to flare ups,
00:05:17 especially if root causes like insulin resistance, stress, or inflammation aren't addressed. And remember, while PCOS can be challenging, there are many tools and strategies available to help you take control of your health. Thanks for watching. you take control of your health. Thanks for watching. If you'd like to know more. You're more than welcome. Welcome to contact me via email info at Julia Young nutrition.com or follow me on Instagram at Julia Young. Nutrition. Thank you.
