If you've recently been diagnosed with PCOS or have been dealing with it for years, you may have heard all sorts of advice, theories, and well-meaning but confusing comments from people. This condition, affecting up to 1 in 10 women, is complicated and often misunderstood. Let’s dig into some of the biggest myths about PCOS and shed light on the truth to help you feel more empowered in your health journey.

Myth #1: “Only overweight people get PCOS.”

One of the most common misunderstandings about PCOS is that it only affects those who are overweight or obese. While weight can play a role in PCOS for many, it’s not exclusive to body size or type. PCOS doesn’t discriminate; people of all shapes and sizes can develop it.

About 40-50% of women with PCOS are of a “normal” weight, and some are even underweight. However, being overweight or underweight can impact the severity of symptoms, as fat cells influence insulin and hormone levels, which are often out of balance in PCOS. The key takeaway? PCOS is more about hormone and insulin regulation issues than it is about body size.

Myth #2: “PCOS is just a reproductive issue.”

It’s true that PCOS can affect fertility and menstrual health, but calling it just a “reproductive issue” is a massive understatement. PCOS is actually a hormonal and metabolic condition that can impact almost every aspect of health. It can increase the risk of diabetes, heart disease, depression, and anxiety.

Beyond physical health, PCOS can deeply affect mental health as well. The constant battle with symptoms and the stress of managing a chronic condition can lead to anxiety, depression, and even self-esteem issues. Recognizing PCOS as more than just a reproductive issue is essential, as it allows us to address the entire person and create a holistic approach to wellness.

Myth #3: “If you have PCOS, you can’t get pregnant.”

Many people believe that PCOS equals infertility, but that’s not the whole story. While PCOS can make it more challenging to conceive naturally because of irregular ovulation, it doesn’t mean pregnancy is impossible. In fact, many women with PCOS go on to have healthy pregnancies, sometimes with lifestyle changes alone, and other times with fertility assistance.

There are many approaches to support fertility with PCOS, including lifestyle modifications, diet, stress management, and natural supplements. Medical treatments like Clomid or IVF are also options. The journey might require some extra planning and support, but PCOS does not make pregnancy an absolute “no.”

Myth #4: “If you have cysts on your ovaries, you have PCOS.”

It’s easy to think that the “cystic ovaries” part of PCOS is the main indicator, but not all women with PCOS actually have cysts on their ovaries! PCOS is a complex syndrome with a range of symptoms, and while polycystic ovaries can be one sign, they aren’t required for a diagnosis.

PCOS is primarily diagnosed based on symptoms and hormone levels, not just the presence of cysts. Key diagnostic criteria include irregular periods, excess androgen (male hormones that can cause acne or excessive hair growth), and sometimes, the appearance of small cysts on the ovaries. A person might have polycystic ovaries on an ultrasound without having PCOS, or they might have PCOS without visible ovarian cysts.

Myth #5: “Losing weight will cure your PCOS.”

This is probably the most frustrating myth, especially since women with PCOS are often told to just “lose weight” as a solution. While weight management can be a helpful tool in managing PCOS symptoms, it is not a cure. PCOS is a lifelong condition with hormonal, genetic, and lifestyle factors all at play.

Yes, if weight is a factor, losing even 5-10% of body weight can help improve insulin sensitivity, regulate hormones, and reduce symptoms, but it doesn’t “cure” PCOS. Plus, weight loss is incredibly challenging with PCOS due to insulin resistance, hormonal imbalances, and other factors. The focus should be on building sustainable health habits, like balanced eating, regular movement, stress management, and supportive sleep routines, instead of fixating on weight as a solution.

Embracing the Truth

Understanding these myths and the real facts behind them can be empowering. PCOS is complex, and there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Each person’s journey with PCOS is unique, and addressing it is often about finding the right combination of lifestyle habits, medical support, and self-compassion.

As a wellness coach, I encourage my clients to focus on what they can control and build a routine that nurtures both their body and mind. With the right support, beating PCOS is absolutely possible…I am a walking example! Reach out to find out more about how working 1:1 we can help you beat it too.