PCOS 101: 7 Signs You May Have PCOS

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Polycystic ovary syndrome, or PCOS, is a common hormonal disorder affecting millions of women worldwide. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, it impacts an estimated 1 in 10 women of reproductive age (18-44). Being aware of the early signs and symptoms can lead to early diagnosis and, ultimately, better care & management. Here are seven signs that you may have PCOS:

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1. Irregular periods: One of the most common symptoms of PCOS is having infrequent, irregular or prolonged periods. A study published in the journal Fertility and Sterility states that women with PCOS may have fewer than nine periods a year or experience heavy bleeding during their cycles (Teede et al., 786).

2. Excess hair growth: Hirsutism, or excess hair growth on the face, chest or back, affects approximately 70% of women with PCOS. This occurs due to an increased production of androgens, which are male hormones.

3. Acne and oily skin: Hormonal imbalances associated with PCOS can lead to persistent acne, particularly on the lower half of the face, as well as excessively oily skin.

4. Thinning hair or hair loss: PCOS can cause thinning hair or hair loss from the scalp, a condition called androgenic alopecia. This is due to the elevated levels of androgens in the body.

5. Weight gain or difficulty losing weight: Many women with PCOS struggle with weight gain or have difficulty losing weight. Insulin resistance, which is common in PCOS, can contribute to this issue.

6. Darkened patches of skin: Acanthosis nigricans, which causes dark, thick and velvety patches of skin, can be another sign of PCOS. These patches typically appear in body folds and creases, such as the neck, armpits or groin.

7. Polycystic ovaries: Women with PCOS may have enlarged ovaries containing small, fluid-filled sacs called follicles. This can be detected during an ultrasound examination.

 

Diagnosing PCOS:

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There is no single test to definitively diagnose PCOS. A health care provider will typically use a combination of medical history, physical examination and laboratory tests to diagnose the condition. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, a PCOS diagnosis requires at least two of the following criteria: irregular periods, high levels of androgens either measured in the blood or through visible symptoms (e.g., excess hair growth) and polycystic ovaries as seen on an ultrasound.

Early diagnosis and treatment can help manage the symptoms of PCOS and reduce the risk of long-term complications, such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above, consult with a health care professional for further evaluation.

 

Works Cited:

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Teede, Helena J., et al. "Recommendations from the International Evidence-Based Guideline for the Assessment and Management of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome." Fertility and Sterility, vol. 110, no. 3, 2018, pp. 364-79.

"Polycystic Ovary Syndrome." U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office on Women's Health, 2020, www.womenshealth.gov/a-z-topics/polycystic-ovary-syndrome.