Overview
PCOS is a common hormonal condition that affects how the ovaries work, often involving irregular periods, higher levels of male-type hormones, and difficulty with ovulation. It is also closely linked to insulin resistance and metabolic problems. Symptoms vary widely, and it is diagnosed through a combination of history, examination, blood tests, and sometimes an ultrasound.
Symptoms
- Irregular, infrequent, or absent menstrual periods
- Difficulty becoming pregnant
- Excess facial or body hair
- Acne or oily skin
- Thinning hair on the scalp
- Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
- Darkened skin patches
Causes & risk factors
- Hormonal imbalance involving higher male-type hormones
- Insulin resistance
- Family history of PCOS
- Often linked with excess body weight (though it occurs at any weight)
Treatment & self-care
Care generally addresses the symptoms that matter most to the individual, which may include managing periods, supporting fertility, reducing excess hair or acne, and improving insulin sensitivity through lifestyle measures. A clinician also screens for related risks such as raised blood sugar and cholesterol. Diagnosis and a personalised plan should come from a licensed clinician, often a gynaecologist or endocrinologist.
See a doctor urgently if
- You have irregular or missed periods, excess hair growth, or trouble conceiving
- You are trying to become pregnant and have known PCOS
- You have very heavy bleeding or go many months without a period, which should be evaluated