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Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): Symptoms and Treatment in Seoul

What is PCOS?

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common hormonal conditions in people of reproductive age. In PCOS, the ovaries do not release an egg regularly, and levels of androgens (hormones such as testosterone) may be higher than usual. PCOS is also linked with insulin resistance, which affects how the body uses sugar.

Despite the name, PCOS is not a condition of true cysts. The "cysts" seen on ultrasound are many small follicles that have not matured.

What are the symptoms of PCOS?

• Irregular periods, long gaps between periods, or no periods
• Extra hair growth on the face, chest, or abdomen (hirsutism)
• Acne or oily skin
• Thinning scalp hair
• Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
• Difficulty becoming pregnant because of irregular ovulation
• Dark, velvety skin patches in skin folds (a sign of insulin resistance)

What causes PCOS?

The exact cause is unknown. PCOS tends to run in families, and genetic factors, insulin resistance, and hormone signaling between the brain and ovaries all play a role. Weight gain can make symptoms worse, but people of any body size can have PCOS.

How is PCOS diagnosed?

PCOS is commonly diagnosed using the Rotterdam criteria, which require two of these three findings, after other causes are ruled out:

1. Irregular or absent ovulation (usually shown by irregular periods)
2. Signs of high androgens, in symptoms or blood tests
3. Polycystic-appearing ovaries on ultrasound

How is PCOS evaluated at the clinic?

Dr. Eun will ask about your periods, skin and hair changes, weight, and pregnancy plans. A transvaginal ultrasound(or a pelvic ultrasound through the abdomen for people who have not had sex) shows the ovaries and uterine lining. Blood tests may include hormones, thyroid function, prolactin, blood sugar, and cholesterol. An AMH test is often higher in PCOS and can add information, although it is not used alone for diagnosis. A pregnancy test is done if a period is missed.

When should I see a doctor?

See a gynecologist if you have fewer than about 8 periods per year, no period for 3 months or more (when not pregnant), new extra hair growth, or difficulty becoming pregnant. Long gaps between periods can let the uterine lining build up, so they should be evaluated.

Seek emergency care (call 119) if you have very heavy bleeding with dizziness or fainting, or sudden, severe pelvic pain.

What are the treatment options for PCOS?

Treatment focuses on your main concerns and on long-term health.

•  Lifestyle: balanced eating, regular physical activity, and, for people with extra weight, modest weight loss can improve cycles and insulin resistance. The clinic offers medical weight management consultations.
• Regulating periods: combined hormonal contraceptives or cyclic progestin protect the uterine lining and make bleeding more regular.
• Skin and hair symptoms: hormonal contraceptives and, in some cases, anti-androgen medicines; hair removal can also help.
• Insulin resistance: metformin may be considered in some people.
• Pregnancy planning: ovulation induction with medicines such as letrozole is a standard first step for people who are not ovulating regularly.

PCOS is a long-term condition. Regular checks of blood sugar, cholesterol, and blood pressure are recommended. Individual results vary.

Getting care in English near Seongsu Station

Eunice Women's Clinic is on the 8th floor of Bethel Place, 120 Achasan-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul. The building is across the crosswalk from Seoul Subway Line 2 Seongsu Station Exit 3, about a 1-minute walk ( directions). Dr. Eun Mi-na, a female board-certified OB-GYN, holds consultations about PCOS and irregular periods in English.

   

Day	Hours
Mon, Wed, Fri	10:00–19:00 (lunch 13:30–14:30)
Tue, Thu	10:00–20:00 (lunch 13:30–14:30)
Sat	10:00–14:00 (no lunch break)
Sun and public holidays	Closed

Booking is recommended. You can book through Naver Booking, the KakaoTalk channel (search "유니스산부인과"), or by phone at +82-2-467-3100 ( how to book). Call or message to check same-day availability.

Frequently asked questions

Can PCOS be cured?

There is no permanent cure for PCOS, but symptoms can be managed well. Lifestyle changes, hormonal treatment, and ovulation induction help many people. Treatment is chosen based on your main concerns, such as periods, skin, weight, or pregnancy. Individual results vary.

Can I get pregnant with PCOS?

Many people with PCOS become pregnant. Because ovulation is irregular, it may take longer. Ovulation induction with medicine is a common, evidence-based first step. Discuss your plans with Dr. Eun at a fertility or pre-pregnancy consultation.

Do I have PCOS if my ultrasound shows many follicles?

Not necessarily. Many small follicles can be seen in healthy young people. PCOS is diagnosed only when at least two of three criteria are met: irregular ovulation, signs of high androgens, and polycystic-appearing ovaries, with other causes ruled out.

Is PCOS linked to diabetes?

PCOS is linked with insulin resistance and a higher risk of type 2 diabetes, especially with weight gain or a family history. Regular blood sugar checks are recommended for people with PCOS.

How much does an AMH test cost at the clinic?

The listed out-of-pocket price for an AMH (ovarian reserve) blood test at Eunice Women's Clinic is 60,000 KRW. AMH is often higher in PCOS but is not used alone for diagnosis. Prices may change; confirm with the clinic.

Related pages

•  Transvaginal Ultrasound
• AMH Test
• Ovulation Induction
• Irregular Periods
• Missed Period
• Medical Weight Loss

This page provides general health information for patients and does not replace a consultation with a doctor. Individual results vary. If you have severe pain, heavy bleeding, fainting or other urgent symptoms, call 119 or go to the nearest emergency room. Page updated September 2026.