Understanding PCOS: Discover 7 Key Symptoms of The Hormone Health Disease

Reviewed by Dr. Stephanie Egboh, September 2024

Understanding Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a complex hormonal disorder affecting millions of women worldwide. Despite its prevalence, many misconceptions surround PCOS, potentially hindering proper diagnosis and management. This comprehensive guide aims to demystify PCOS, exploring its symptoms, causes, and essential facts to empower you in taking control of your health.

What is PCOS?

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal imbalance affecting women of reproductive age. This condition disrupts the normal functioning of the ovaries, leading to various reproductive and metabolic issues.

Key Symptoms of PCOS

Recognizing the symptoms of PCOS is crucial for early diagnosis and effective management. Here are the most common signs associated with PCOS:

1. Irregular or Missed Periods: One of the hallmark signs of PCOS is menstrual irregularity. Women may experience:
   • Infrequent periods (oligomenorrhea)
   • Prolonged menstrual cycles
   • Complete absence of periods (amenorrhea)
2. Excess Hair Growth (Hirsutism): Due to elevated androgen levels, women with PCOS often experience unwanted hair growth in areas typically associated with male hair patterns, such as:
   • Face (especially upper lip and chin)
   • Chest
   • Back
   • Abdomen
3. Acne and Oily Skin: Hormonal imbalances can increase sebum production, leading to:
   • Persistent acne, especially on the face, chest, and back
   • Excessively oily skin
4. Weight Management Challenges: Many women with PCOS struggle with:
   • Unexplained weight gain
   • Difficulty losing weight
   • Insulin resistance, contributing to weight issues
5. Hair Thinning or Loss: PCOS can cause:
   • Thinning hair on the scalp
   • Male-pattern baldness in some cases
6. Skin Discoloration: Some women develop:
   • Dark, velvety skin patches (acanthosis nigricans)
   • Common areas include the neck, groin, and under the breasts
7. Ovarian Cysts: While not present in all cases, many women with PCOS have:
   • Multiple small cysts on their ovaries
   • These cysts are actually immature follicles that have failed to release eggs

Essential Facts About PCOS

Understanding these key facts about PCOS can help you navigate your health journey more effectively:

• Prevalence: PCOS affects approximately 1 in 10 women of childbearing age, making it one of the most common endocrine disorders in women.
• Fertility Impact: PCOS is a leading cause of infertility, as it can prevent regular ovulation.
• Early Onset: PCOS can develop as early as adolescence, sometimes around age 11, often going undiagnosed for years due to symptom variability.
• Health Risks: Women with PCOS have an increased risk of developing:
  • Type 2 diabetes
  • Cardiovascular disease
  • High blood pressure
  • Sleep apnea
  • Endometrial cancer
• Not Size-Specific: PCOS can affect women of all body types, not just those who are overweight.
• Holistic Health Impact: PCOS affects more than just reproductive health; it impacts overall metabolic health and mental health.
• Management vs. Cure: While there’s no cure for PCOS, symptoms can be effectively managed through:
  • Lifestyle modifications
  • Medications
  • Regular health monitoring

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of PCOS remains unknown, but several factors may contribute to its development:

• Genetics: PCOS tends to run in families, suggesting a genetic component.
• Insulin Resistance: Many women with PCOS have insulin resistance, which may play a role in the development of the condition.
• Inflammation: Chronic low-grade inflammation is common in women with PCOS and may contribute to hormonal imbalances.
• Excess Androgen Production: The ovaries of women with PCOS often produce higher levels of androgens, leading to many PCOS symptoms.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosing PCOS typically involves:

1. Medical History: Your doctor will ask about your menstrual cycles and other symptoms.
2. Physical Exam: This may include checking for signs of excess hair growth, acne, and insulin resistance.
3. Blood Tests: To check hormone levels, including androgens and insulin.
4. Pelvic Ultrasound: To examine the ovaries for cysts and evaluate the endometrium.

Treatment for PCOS is tailored to each individual and may include:

• Lifestyle Changes: Diet modifications, regular exercise, and stress management.
• Medications: Birth control pills to regulate menstrual cycles, metformin for insulin resistance, anti-androgens for excess hair growth.
• Fertility Treatments: For women trying to conceive, options like ovulation induction medications may be recommended.

Living with PCOS

While PCOS is a chronic condition, many women lead healthy, fulfilling lives with proper management:

• Regular Check-ups: Maintain ongoing care with your healthcare provider to monitor your condition.
• Healthy Diet: Focus on a balanced diet rich in whole grains, lean proteins, and vegetables.
• Exercise Regularly: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week.
• Mental Health: Don’t neglect your mental well-being. Seek support if you’re struggling with the emotional aspects of PCOS.

Taking Charge of Your PCOS Diagnosis

If you suspect you have PCOS or experience any of the symptoms mentioned, it’s important to seek medical advice promptly. Early diagnosis and proper management can significantly improve your quality of life. You can book a PCOS test on our website or visit our lab at 35A Furo Ezimora Street, Lekki Phase 1, Lagos to get started. Don’t let PCOS go unchecked—take charge of your health today!