By: Ama Joycelyn Tseyiboe
A growing number of young women are unknowingly living with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), a hormonal condition that specialists say often goes undiagnosed due to subtle early signs and misconceptions.
Dr. Issac Tettey Secorm a gynecologist at the Greater Accra Regional Hospital speaking on GTV’s Breakfast Show on Wednesday November 26, 2025 a medical practitioner explained that some of the first outward indicators of PCOS include increased facial hair growth and frequent breakouts. However, the most common warning sign occurs internally.
“One of the major presentations of PCOS is menstrual disorder,” he noted. “Because many of these women do not ovulate regularly, their menstrual cycle becomes irregular. If ovulation does not happen, menstruation will not occur.”
According to Dr. Issac, many patients report long delays between periods, sometimes months at a time.
In a recent case, a woman who delivered a child seven years ago had not menstruated since her delivery. Despite looking physically healthy, she had unknowingly lived with PCOS for years, assuming the condition would correct itself.
One of the key indicators of PCOS doctors generally look for are: signs of excess male hormones (such as facial hair), irregular menstrual cycles, and evidence of polycystic ovaries on a scan. Having any two of these is enough for a diagnosis. Beyond menstrual irregularities, experts warn that PCOS can affect fertility. “If you don’t ovulate, you can’t get pregnant,” the doctor emphasized.
The condition also contributes to weight gain, especially around the abdomen , a pattern linked with increased risks of diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, and heart disease.
He urged women experiencing irregular periods or sudden changes in weight and skin condition to seek medical evaluation early. Early diagnosis, he said, is key to preventing long-term health complications.
