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Published:
April 7, 2026

PCOS For Dummies

Overview

Answers to your questions about polycystic ovarian syndrome

PCOS For Dummies, 2nd Edition is a trustworthy resource for information on polycystic ovarian syndrome, a condition caused by hormone imbalance. Many cases of PCOS go undiagnosed—learn to spot the symptoms and get tested. If you've been diagnosed, this book helps you consider available treatment options, including both traditional medical treatments and alternative therapies. It also debunks common myths and misinformation. This reliable guide helps you manage symptoms, reduce your risk of complications, and find a path forward.

Inside:

  • Learn about PCOS, including symptoms, causes, treatments, and long-term effects
  • Find doctors and organizations that can support you on your health journey
  • Find out what diet and lifestyle changes you can make to reduce symptoms and feel your best
  • Discover new medications, fertility treatments, and more for PCOS

Anyone living with PCOS—or supporting a loved one who has it—can benefit from PCOS For Dummies, 2nd Editon.

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About The Author

Gaynor Bussell is a specialist nutritionist with over 30 years’ experience in women’s health and the author of the first edition of PCOS For Dummies.

Sharon Perkins is a registered nurse with nearly 40 years of maternal-child health experience and author of numerous For Dummies titles covering women’s health topics.

Sample Chapters

pcos for dummies

CHEAT SHEET

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) often appears to be a collection of unrelated symptoms affecting your menstrual cycle, fertility, appearance, and weight. But when you put the puzzle pieces together, you can see not only how the symptoms relate to one another but also how simple lifestyle changes can have a positive impact on them.

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Articles from
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If you’re willing to overhaul your diet and start a simple exercise program, you can gain a great deal of control over your PCOS symptoms. Insulin resistance causes many PCOS symptoms, and diet and exercise help control insulin resistance. If you’re overweight, lose weight by limiting yourself to 1,500 calories per day.
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) often appears to be a collection of unrelated symptoms affecting your menstrual cycle, fertility, appearance, and weight. But when you put the puzzle pieces together, you can see not only how the symptoms relate to one another but also how simple lifestyle changes can have a positive impact on them.
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is described as a syndrome rather than a disease because it shows up as a group of signs and symptoms that can occur in any combination. Here are some of the symptoms of PCOS: Abnormal menstrual cycle: When you have PCOS, your periods may be heavier, lighter, irregular, or absent altogether.
PCOS can interfere with getting pregnant in a number of ways. You may need to see a fertility specialist to get pregnant if you have no menstrual periods at all, very irregular menstrual periods, or periods that are extremely heavy when they do come. To determine if PCOS symptoms are interfering with your ability to get pregnant, a fertility doctor may Do an ultrasound of your ovaries.
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Frequently Asked Questions

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