PCOS symptoms vary widely, affecting menstrual cycles, hormones, metabolism, skin, and mental health across a broad clinical spectrum.
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Symptoms and Conditions
Why Are PCOS Symptoms Often Overlooked?
PCOS is often considered a “silent” syndrome because its symptoms may appear unrelated or mild. As a systemic endocrine disorder, it can affect the skin, metabolism, and reproductive system in different ways, with symptoms varying widely from one woman to another.
Menstrual Irregularities and Anovulation
The hallmark of PCOS is menstrual cycle disruption, often presenting as infrequent or absent periods. This occurs due to inconsistent hormonal signals that prevent ovulation, leading to irregular shedding of the uterine lining and making PCOS a major cause of difficulty in conceiving.
Hirsutism: Excess Hair Growth
Elevated androgen levels (male-type hormones like testosterone) often lead to hirsutism, which is the growth of coarse, dark hair in areas where men typically grow hair.
This includes the chin, upper lip, chest, abdomen, and back. For many women, this is one of the most distressing symptoms of PCOS.
It is important to note that hirsutism is a biological indicator of internal hormonal excess and is a key factor in a clinical diagnosis.
Skin Changes Associated With PCOS
Persistent adult acne, especially along the jawline and neck, is commonly linked to PCOS due to high androgen levels.
Some women also develop dark, velvety skin patches known as acanthosis nigricans, a key physical sign of insulin resistance.
Androgenic Alopecia (Scalp Hair Thinning)
While PCOS can cause excess hair on the body, it can simultaneously cause thinning of the hair on the scalp.
This is known as female-pattern hair loss or androgenic alopecia. You may notice a widening part or a general loss of hair volume, especially at the front and top of the head.
This happens because high levels of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) shrink the hair follicles, shortening the growth phase of the hair.
Weight Gain and the "PCOS Belly"
Many women with PCOS experience rapid weight gain or difficulty losing weight, particularly around the abdomen.
This pattern is closely linked to insulin resistance, which promotes fat storage and limits the body’s ability to burn fat for energy.
Metabolic Syndrome and Prediabetes
Because of the strong link between PCOS and insulin resistance, women with the syndrome are at a much higher risk for metabolic conditions.
This includes high blood pressure, high triglycerides, and low “good” (HDL) cholesterol. If left unmanaged, insulin resistance can progress to “impaired glucose tolerance” or Type 2 Diabetes.
Sleep Apnea and Fatigue
There is a significant overlap between PCOS and obstructive sleep apnea, a condition where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. This is more common in women with PCOS who are overweight, but it can affect lean women as well due to hormonal influences on the upper airway.
The result is chronic daytime fatigue, morning headaches, and a lack of energy, which can further complicate efforts to maintain an active lifestyle.
Pelvic Pain and "Polycystic" Ovaries
While the name implies “cysts,” the ovaries in PCOS are actually filled with many tiny, immature follicles that have stopped growing. While these small follicles do not typically cause the sharp pain associated with a large ruptured ovarian cyst, many women with PCOS report a chronic “heaviness” or dull ache in the pelvic region. An ultrasound can confirm if the ovaries have a “string of pearls” appearance, which is a key diagnostic indicator.
The Psychological Impact of PCOS
The physical effects of PCOS, such as weight gain, hair loss, and fertility challenges, can strongly affect self-esteem and mental health.
Women with PCOS have higher rates of anxiety and depression, driven by both emotional stress and hormonal imbalances.
Endometrial Hyperplasia
When periods are infrequent, the endometrial lining of the uterus continues to build up without being shed. Over time, this can lead to “endometrial hyperplasia,” where the lining becomes too thick.
If this condition persists for years without intervention, it increases the risk of developing endometrial cancer. This is why “regulating the cycle” is not just about fertility; it is a preventive health necessity.
How Does Liv Hospital Offer Holistic Care for PCOS?
At Liv Hospital, PCOS care goes beyond medical checklists to address daily life and self-confidence.
Our multidisciplinary team provides coordinated treatment for hormonal, metabolic, and dermatological concerns through personalized care plans focused on long-term health.
Send us all your questions or requests, and our expert team will assist you.
Yes. Some women have normal blood levels, but their skin and hair follicles are overly sensitive to androgens.
No. Hormonal imbalance and insulin resistance make weight management much harder than usual.
Fatigue may result from insulin resistance, sleep issues, or low vitamin B12 and D levels.
Yes. Hormonal and blood sugar fluctuations can trigger irritability and mood changes.
Reproductive symptoms may ease, but metabolic risks like diabetes and heart disease can increase, requiring ongoing care.
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