How Women's Lives in Balochistan Are Being Rewritten by PCOS

In the rugged landscapes of Balochistan where access to healthcare is often limited and conversations around women’s health remain sensitive, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is quietly reshaping the lives of thousands of women. Once considered a rare hormonal disorder, PCOS has become increasingly common across Pakistan, and its impact in Balochistan is particularly profound due to social, economic, and cultural challenges.

PCOS is a hormonal condition that affects women of reproductive age. 

It can cause irregular menstrual cycles excessive hair growth, acne, weight gain, and difficulty in conceiving. While these symptoms are medical in nature, in conservative societies like parts of Balochistan, they often carry deep social consequences. Fertility, for instance, is closely tied to a woman’s status within marriage and family life. When a woman struggles to conceive due to PCOS, she may face stigma, emotional distress, and even pressure from extended family members.

One of the biggest challenges in Balochistan is delayed diagnosis. Many women are unaware of what PCOS is or mistake its symptoms for normal hormonal fluctuations. Limited access to gynaecologists, especially in rural districts, means that women often rely on home remedies or unqualified practitioners. By the time they receive proper medical attention, complications such as severe insulin resistance, obesity, or infertility may have developed.

Lifestyle factors are also playing a role. Urban centres like Quetta are experiencing gradual changes in diet and activity levels. Processed foods, reduced physical movement, and rising stress levels contribute to hormonal imbalances. However, awareness about preventive measures—such as balanced nutrition, regular exercise, and early screening—remains limited.

The emotional toll of PCOS cannot be overstated. Many women experience anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem due to visible symptoms like weight gain or excessive facial hair. In a society where appearance and fertility are heavily scrutinised, these changes can isolate women socially. Unfortunately, mental health support services in Balochistan are scarce, leaving many to cope in silence.

Despite these challenges, change is slowly emerging. Health campaigns led by local NGOs and medical professionals are beginning to educate women about reproductive health. Social media has also become a powerful tool, allowing young women to learn about PCOS, share experiences, and seek advice anonymously. Clinics in urban areas are increasingly offering hormone testing and ultrasound services, making diagnosis more accessible than before.

Importantly doctors emphasise that PCOS is manageable. With early intervention, lifestyle adjustments, and appropriate medication, many women can regulate their cycles and improve their chances of conception. Awareness is the first step toward empowerment. When women understand that PCOS is a medical condition—not a personal failing—they are better equipped to seek treatment and advocate for themselves.

PCOS is more than a health issue in Balochistan; it is a social reality that is rewriting women’s experiences of marriage, motherhood, and self-worth. Addressing it requires not only medical resources but also cultural sensitivity, education, and community support. As conversations around women’s health become more open, there is hope that future generations in Balochistan will face PCOS with knowledge, confidence, and stronger healthcare systems behind them.