Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common condition affecting hormones in women of reproductive age. It’s estimated that over 1 in 10 women worldwide experience PCOS. The condition can result in hair growth, irregular periods, and even infertility. PCOS affects each person differently, which can make diagnosis and management difficult.
Making changes to lifestyle, including diet and exercise, plays an important role in supporting hormonal balance and overall well-being. But many women go with nutritional supplements for the same. Keep reading as we give a detailed overview of PCOS and explain the role of the polycystic ovary syndrome supplements market in managing it.
PCOS is a condition that causes hormonal imbalance. It occurs when excess hormones are created by the ovaries. The levels of the hormones called androgens are unusually high in women with PCOS. This causes an imbalance in the reproductive organs. As such, the menstrual cycles in women with PCOS are often irregular. They also experience missed periods and unpredictable ovulation.
The lack of ovulation may result in small follicle cysts on the ovaries. The cysts may be visible on ultrasound. However, not all PCOS cases have cysts on the ovaries. The ovarian cysts don’t cause pain and aren’t dangerous.
PCOS is a common cause of female fertility. It can increase the risk of other health conditions as well. The treatment will be based on the symptoms and whether the individual is planning to get pregnant.
The rising prevalence of PCOS and growing focus on women’s health have led to increased polycystic ovary syndrome supplements market demand. Our analysis reveals the polycystic ovary syndrome supplements market stood at USD 1.17 billion in 2024. It is expected to account for a CAGR of 14.13% between 2025 and 2034.
Higher Androgen Levels
The higher levels of androgens prevent the release of eggs from the ovaries. This makes the menstrual cycles irregular. Irregular ovulation can also lead to the development of fluid-filled sacs in the ovaries. Higher levels of androgen may also cause excess hair growth and acne.
Insulin Resistance
An increase in the levels of insulin results in the release of androgens by the ovaries. These hormones prevent ovulation and result in other symptoms associated with PCOS. Insulin is essential for processing glucose and using it for energy. Insulin resistance means the body can’t process insulin as required, resulting in high levels of glucose in the blood. Not all women with insulin resistance have high levels of glucose. But it may lead to diabetes. Being overweight or obese can also contribute to diabetes.
Low-grade Inflammation
PCOS is often associated with low-grade inflammation. Tests from the blood testing market can be used here for measuring the levels of white blood cells and C-reactive protein (CRP). These tests indicate the inflammation levels in the body.
Most PCOS cases are diagnosed by making an examination and discussing the symptoms with the individual. Blood tests or an ultrasound may be performed for helping with the diagnosis. During diagnosis, the healthcare professional will discuss the individual’s symptoms, medical history, and their family’s medical history. A physical examination can be carried out to look for excess facial hair or acne. A pelvic exam may be performed to look for other reasons for abnormal bleeding.
The treatment options will be based on the exact symptoms and other health conditions. Treatment can include lifestyle changes and medications. Sometimes, a combination of both may be used.
Treatment options for women who don’t want to get pregnant include:
Hormonal Birth Control: This treatment option is for women who don’t want to get pregnant. Options for hormonal birth control include vaginal ring, birth control pills, or intrauterine devices (IUD). Hormonal birth control helps with the regulation of the menstrual cycle. They can also help with acne improvement and stop excessive hair growth.
Insulin-Sensitizing Medicine: Metformin is a medicine used in diabetes treatment. The drug works by allowing the body to process insulin. Once the levels of insulin are under control, individuals may see their menstrual cycles improve.
Medications to Block Androgens: There are medications for blocking the effects of androgens. These drugs help in controlling acne and hair growth. The healthcare provider assesses the symptoms and recommends the right medication.
Lifestyle Changes: The levels of insulin can be influenced through the consumption of a nutritious diet. Maintaining a healthy body weight can also help.
For women who want to get pregnant, treatment options include:
Drugs to Induce Ovulation: The journey of a successful pregnancy begins with ovulation. Certain medications have been proven effective at inducing ovulation in women with PCOS. These medications may be consumed orally or given by injection.
Surgery: A surgical procedure may be performed for restoring ovulation. Here, tissues that produce the hormone androgen in the ovaries are removed. The introduction of advanced medications and supplements has made this option rare.
In vitro fertilization (IVF): IVF solutions from the assistive reproductive technology market are used when medication doesn’t help with ovulation. Here, the fertilization of eggs with the partner’s sperm is done in a lab. After this, the eggs are transferred to the uterus.
PCOS is a common condition that affects the ovaries and other body parts. It often develops when individuals get their first period. But it can also develop later. The prevalence of PCOS is on the rise globally. Companies in the polycystic ovary syndrome supplements market are increasingly focusing on the development of science-formulated products that sustain insulin control and hormonal stability.