Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is thought to affect around one in five women of reproductive age, but because the disorder’s symptoms can be incredibly varied, it can be difficult to pinpoint.
Of course, it’s always best to pay your GP a visit straight away if you suspect you have PCOS, but here are some of the symptoms to look out for.
From facial hair to mood swings and heavy periods, there are many ways your body could be telling you something isn’t right.
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One PCOS symptom is hair thinning and even hair loss, according to Krystal Thomas-White, a senior scientist at Evvy.
Speaking to the Huffington Post, Thomas-White noted that hair thinning is normally first noticed near the parting, at the top of the head.
Explaining how PCOS works, Thomas-White said: “Specifically, people with PCOS have abnormally high levels of androgen hormones [like testosterone], which can disrupt the balance of hormones that regulate the menstrual cycle and [can] prevent ovulation.”
Irregular periods can be another sign of PCOS, Dr. Beth Oller told the outlet.
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“Most people with PCOS have irregular periods. Sometimes this means having periods that last longer than most, and it often means having fewer than normal periods a year,” Oller explained.
When it comes to the likelihood of having PCOS, she added: “Certain genes may also be linked to PCOS, which means a family history may increase your chance [of having the disorder].”
Another common sign of PCOS is a noticeable increase in body and facial hair, which is known as hirsutism, and people suffering from extra hair may notice it looks different from hair on other parts of their body, often being 'coarse and dark'.
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PCOS can also lead to acne breakouts, with Dr. Heather Hipp, an associate professor in the department of gynaecology and obstetrics at Emory University School of Medicine, saying: “Acne is really common in a lot of young patients, but patients with PCOS tend to have more severe acne and then it persists even as [they] get older.”
The condition can affect sufferers’ skin in other ways, too. For example, people with PCOS might start noticing skin tags popping up on their body, most commonly around the armpits and neck.
Difficulty getting pregnant is another tell-tale sign, with Oller saying: “It is often difficult to get pregnant with PCOS because periods are irregular and ovulation does not frequently occur.”
But like we said, ladies, if you’re experiencing any of the above - get yourself down to your GP ASAP!
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If you’re worried about having Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, speak to your GP who can check whether you have the condition. If you have PCOS and are in any type of crisis, text PCOS to Crisis Text Line on 741741 from anywhere in the United States or UK for 24/7 support and information.
Topics: Health
Aisha Nozari