India, Aug. 31 -- Having polycystic ovaries is not a disease as it was previously called (PCOD), but is a syndrome, named polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). It comprises a group of symptoms affecting all age groups in females. Classically, if a woman has any two of the three symptoms of irregular menstrual cycles, hyperandrogenism (that is excessive hair growth on the body and acne) or appearance of polycystic ovaries on ultrasound sonography, then she is said to be suffering from PCOS Usually, women with polycystic ovaries are obese and the first step in its treatment consists of lifestyle management. Diet modification along with physical activity go a long way in prevention of symptoms of PCOS. The next step of treatment depends on the symptoms, for example for irregular menstrual cycles, oral contraceptive pills are given; for infertility, ovulation inducing agents can be given; and for long-term prevention of endometrial cancer and diabetes, appropriate management is done. Bottom line at all stages is weight control. The author of this article is an IVF and fertility specialist at Jindal IVF, SCO 21, Sector 20-D, Dakshin Marg, Chandigarh, who can be contacted at 958-246-9429...