PCOS affects millions of women, and we spoke to a specialist to break down what it really means, how to manage it, and why early conversations with your doctor matter.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal condition that affects many women. In my case, it took numerous visits to different doctors before I received a diagnosis of PCOS. I had been struggling with painful periods and excessive hair growth. For other women, symptoms may include irregular periods, acne, weight changes, and difficulties getting pregnant. Experiencing these symptoms without proper guidance can be overwhelming. I certainly felt that way, especially since much of the advice I found online about PCOS was inconsistent.
For deeper insights into the symptoms, diagnosis process, and the importance of seeking medical advice early, we spoke to PCOS specialist Dr Chigoziem Oguh, PharmD. She is also a public health professional and women’s health advocate with a professional background in pharmacy and infectious disease control.
Beyond her work in healthcare, she founded Lon Lon Agro Ltd., an emerging agribusiness dedicated to building sustainable food systems in Nigeria. In our conversation, Dr Oguh shared the realities of living with PCOS and how women can better advocate for their health. With a background in pharmacy and public health, she offers clear, practical guidance for managing symptoms.
A healthy lifestyle comes first
As soon as a woman is diagnosed with PCOS, Dr Oguh’s advice is simple: start with your lifestyle. “Adopt a healthy lifestyle,” she says. “Beyond reproductive symptoms, PCOS can come with metabolic complications and mood changes.” She encourages women to focus on eating whole, real foods. Additionally, adding physical activity into daily routines and stress management can make living with PCOS easier. “I tell women to start by adding more movement. It doesn’t need to be high-intensity; yoga, stretching, dance, even daily walks help.” Physical activity supports better insulin control and lowers the risk of related conditions like high blood pressure or mood disorders. Staying on top of these small, consistent changes can lead to long-term benefits.
Why doctors might prescribe birth control for PCOS
Doctors often prescribe birth control drugs, since regulating hormones is key to improving both reproductive and metabolic health. Dr Oguh explains that excess androgen production disrupts normal follicular development, and oral contraceptives are a common option to help regulate cycles and suppress androgens. “But treatment should always be collaborative. It depends on a woman’s goals, lifestyle, and quality of life,” she adds. Dr Oguh also highlights other medications, such as Spironolactone for excess hair growth, Metformin for insulin resistance, and GLP-1 agonists like Ozempic for weight management. For women trying to conceive, ovulation-inducing medications like Letrozole may also be recommended.
Read also: The realities of PCOS: I went to three hospitals before I finally knew what was wrong with me
Monitor your health regularly
PCOS affects more than your reproductive system; sometimes it has wider health implications. According to Dr Oguh, PCOS is linked to high cholesterol, diabetes, and high blood pressure. In view of this, she recommends fasting glucose, HbA1c, blood pressure, and lipid levels checked at least once a year, or more often if risks are high. If a woman hasn’t had a period in over three months, an endometrial ultrasound or biopsy may be necessary to check for abnormal tissue growth.
Choose foods that support hormonal health
You might often hear about “superfoods” for PCOS, like spearmint tea or leafy greens, but Dr Oguh has a recommendation that is rooted in local, accessible nutrition. “One food I always recommend is fonio,” she says. “It has a slower glycemic response than rice or maize, making it great for blood sugar control.” Fonio is also rich in essential nutrients like iron, B vitamins, magnesium, and zinc. She acknowledges the work of Cobi-Jane Akinrele, founder of Ake Collective, who is helping bring fonio back into Nigerian kitchens.
Clearing up the one big myth about PCOS
A major misconception about PCOS is its link to fertility. “A lot of people think women with PCOS can’t get pregnant. That’s not true,” she affirms. While irregular ovulation may make conception harder, there are effective treatments that can support fertility. With medications like letrozole or clomiphene, many women with PCOS go on to have healthy pregnancies.
Living with PCOS can feel overwhelming, but with the right information and support, it becomes easier to manage. As Dr Oguh reminds us, early diagnosis, lifestyle changes, and open conversations with healthcare providers can make a real difference. Whether it’s improving your diet, tracking symptoms, or seeking fertility support, small steps matter. Most importantly, PCOS does not define your future; understanding it is the first step toward taking control of your health.
Read more: As a PCOS warrior here’s how PMS takes a toll on my daily life and well-being
