Common symptoms of PCOS

Verified by Dr. Vaishali Sakpal Rane (MBBS, DGO Obstetrics and Gynaecology, DNB Obstetrics and Gynaecology)

PCOS is a disorder where the ovaries start producing an absurd amount of androgens, male sex hormones that are normally present in small amounts in women. The precise cause of PCOS is unknown. Insulin resistance is common in PCOS women. This means that the body is unable to properly utilise insulin. Insulin levels rise in the body, potentially leading to higher androgen levels. Obesity can also increase insulin levels, aggravating the symptoms of PCOS.

Periods & fertility   

High levels of androgens and insulin in PCOS women can disrupt the menstrual period and inhibit ovulation (the release of a mature egg from the ovary). Ovulation can either stop completely (anovulation) or occur irregularly. This can make it increasingly challenging for PCOS women to conceive naturally. Many PCOS-affected women have children naturally without any need for infertility therapy, but some will need this help in order to conceive.

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Excess hair    

Hirsutism is characterised by excessive hair growth on the body and face as a result of increased levels of male hormones stimulating hair follicles. This extra hair is denser and darker in colour than normal. The hair usually grows in places where men's hair grows, such as the sideburns, chin, top lip, around the nipples, abdomen, chest, and thighs.

Skin condition. 

 If you do have PCOS, the increased levels of androgens on your skin can change the amount of the oil production glands, leading to more acne. Adolescent acne is common, but young women with PCOS have more severe acne.

Mental & emotional health   

Mood swings Depression Anxiety Self-esteem issues Body image issues Influence on standard of living Struggling to cope with hirsutism, severe acne, weight fluctuations, and fertility issues can all have an impact on your self image, self-esteem, sexuality, and femininity. This can exacerbate depression and anxiety. Fertility issues can have an impact on mental health, especially if fertility has been an issue for a long time.

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Related health conditions   

Women with PCOS appear to be more likely to develop certain health conditions, such as sleep apnea (a sleep disorder in which abnormal pauses of breathing occur during sleep) Diabetes risk increases, with earlier onset Sexual health issues Risk of developing coronary heart is increased.

PCOS can destabilise a woman's menstrual cycle and make it difficult to conceive. Elevated concentrations of male hormones can also cause unwanted symptoms such as facial and body hair growth.