Understanding PCOS – Episode 8: Common Myths About PCOS – Debunked
Hey hey girl gang 💖
Welcome back to Understanding PCOS, your safe and real AF space to figure out what’s actually happening in our bodies. We’re already at Episode 8 — can you believe that?!
Today’s topic is fire 🔥 and honestly, overdue:
“Common Myths About PCOS – Debunked.”
Because let’s be honest — how many times have you heard:
> “Shaadi ke baad sab theek ho jayega.”
“Bus sugar kam kar le, ho gaya PCOS ka treatment.”
“PCOS ka matlab hai tu maa nahi ban sakti.”
Breathe, sis. None of this is totally true. So today we’re busting myths and dropping truth bombs — backed by science, with a pinch of sass 💅🏼
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🌸 What is PCOS, Really?
Before we myth-bust, let’s do a quick recap:
PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) is a hormonal imbalance that affects how a woman’s ovaries work. It’s super common — 1 in 5 women in India have it — and it shows up in different ways:
Irregular or missed periods
Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
Acne, oily skin, hair fall
Facial hair (hirsutism)
Fertility struggles
Mood swings or anxiety
But here’s the deal: PCOS is manageable. It’s not a curse. And the earlier you understand it, the better.
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🔥 Let’s Bust 12 Common Myths About PCOS
Myth 1: “You must have cysts on your ovaries to have PCOS.”
Fact: Nope!
Not everyone with PCOS has ovarian cysts.
PCOS is diagnosed based on a combination of symptoms — irregular periods, signs of high androgens (like acne or hair growth), and/or polycystic ovaries on ultrasound.
In fact, you can have PCOS without any cysts, and you can have cysts without having PCOS. Confusing? Yes. But that’s why we need this series.
“Can you have PCOS without cysts?” – Yes, absolutely.
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Myth 2: “Getting married cures PCOS.”
Fact: Girl. No.
This is one of the most common myths in Indian households — “Shaadi karo, sab theek ho jayega.” But PCOS doesn’t magically disappear with a wedding or sex life. 🙄
PCOS is a metabolic and hormonal disorder. Managing it requires lifestyle changes, medical support, and consistency — not just a ring on your finger.
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Myth 3: “PCOS means you can’t get pregnant.”
Fact: Not true.
PCOS can affect ovulation, but it doesn’t mean you’re infertile.
Yes, some women with PCOS face fertility challenges, but many go on to conceive naturally or with a little help (like medication or fertility treatments).
So don’t let fear take over. Talk to a doctor, not an aunty.
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Myth 4: “You caused your PCOS by eating junk.”
Fact: Food affects symptoms, but you didn’t cause this.
PCOS is linked to genetics, hormonal imbalances, and insulin resistance — not just your samosa cravings.
That said, eating a PCOS-friendly diet (balanced, low in sugar, high in fiber) can help manage symptoms big time.
> Natural SEO phrase: “What is the best diet for PCOS?” – A low-GI, anti-inflammatory, protein-rich diet is most recommended.
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Myth 5: “Only overweight girls get PCOS.”
Fact: Nope.
You can be slim and still have PCOS. It’s called Lean PCOS, and it’s just as real. Weight gain is one symptom, not a rule.
So if you’ve been struggling with acne, irregular periods, or fatigue — even if you’re not overweight — don’t ignore the signs.
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Myth 6: “PCOS is just about irregular periods.”
Fact: PCOS affects your whole body, not just your periods.
It can impact:
Metabolism
Mood
Skin
Hair
Sleep
Fertility
Blood sugar levels
That’s why holistic care is key — not just pills for periods.
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Myth 7: “Birth control pills cure PCOS.”
Fact: Pills help manage symptoms, but they don’t cure the root cause.
They regulate periods and reduce acne or hair growth, but once you stop taking them, the symptoms often return. Real management comes from lifestyle, nutrition, and stress reduction.
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Myth 8: “If your periods are regular now, PCOS is gone.”
Fact: Regular periods are great, but PCOS doesn’t go away — it’s a condition you manage, not eliminate.
Even if your cycle improves with treatment, the underlying hormonal imbalance can remain. So keep track of your symptoms and health long-term.
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Myth 9: “You must avoid all carbs with PCOS.”
Fact: Not all carbs are villains!
Refined carbs (like white bread, sugar, maida) can spike insulin — bad news for PCOS.
But complex carbs like whole grains, oats, quinoa, fruits? Totally allowed (and needed for energy and hormone balance).
> Natural SEO tip: “Best carbs for PCOS” include brown rice, millets, oats, and sweet potatoes.
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Myth 10: “Facial hair = PCOS only.”
Fact: PCOS can cause facial hair due to high androgens, but other causes exist too — like genetics or other hormonal disorders.
If you notice sudden growth, get tested for hormonal levels. Don’t self-diagnose based on one symptom.
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Myth 11: “Stress doesn’t affect PCOS.”
Fact: BIG LIE.
Stress = hormone imbalance.
Chronic stress messes up cortisol, which messes up insulin and androgens. It’s all linked.
That’s why PCOS management isn’t just about food — it’s about mental health too.
Yoga, journaling, therapy — all help. ✨
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Myth 12: “PCOS goes away after menopause.”
Fact: Symptoms like irregular periods may stop, but metabolic and hormonal issues can continue — like insulin resistance, weight issues, or risk of type 2 diabetes.
That’s why long-term PCOS care matters — not just till your periods stop.
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🌿 How to Actually Manage PCOS?
Let’s stop with the myths and get real.
✅ Here’s what ACTUALLY helps:
Consistent workout routine (walking, yoga, strength training)
PCOS-friendly diet (low GI, high protein, fiber-rich)
Regular sleep (7–8 hours)
Stress reduction (meditation, hobbies, nature time)
Tracking your cycle
Supplements if needed (like inositol, zinc, omega-3 — but only after doctor consult)
Regular checkups (especially for insulin, thyroid, vitamin D, androgens)
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💌 Final Thoughts – You’re Not Alone
Having PCOS can feel like an emotional rollercoaster. One day your skin’s glowing, next day there’s a new breakout. You’re trying to eat clean, but your cravings scream gulab jamun. Been there, lived that.
But just remember — PCOS is common, but so is healing.
It takes time, but with the right support, you can thrive, not just survive.
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💬 Let’s Talk, Bestie!
Have you heard any of these myths? Or got one we didn’t cover?
DM us, comment below, or email us your story — we might feature it in Episode 9! ✨
This blog is your safe zone. No judgment. Only support.
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Let’s keep breaking the stigma, one episode at a time.
See you in Episode 9 — where we’ll answer the most Google-searched PCOS questions! 🔍
With love & leafy salads,
Your PCOS Bestie 🥬💗
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