You’ve been told you might have PCOS—but no one really explained what that means.
Is it serious? Is it about cysts? Is it fixable?
You’re not alone if you’re feeling confused, overwhelmed, or frustrated. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common hormonal conditions in women, and yet it’s often misunderstood—even by doctors.
This article is your beginner-friendly guide to:
- What PCOS is and how it affects your body
- What causes it (and what doesn’t)
- How to recognize symptoms
- What testing and treatment actually look like
Whether you’re newly diagnosed or just exploring, we’re here to help you understand it all—without the medical jargon.
What Is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome?
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder that affects how the ovaries function.
The name can be misleading. Despite the word “cyst,” PCOS isn’t necessarily about having cysts on your ovaries.
Instead, it’s defined by a combination of:
- Irregular ovulation (or no ovulation at all)
- Elevated levels of androgens (male hormones like testosterone)
- Polycystic appearance of ovaries on ultrasound
You need 2 of these 3 features to be diagnosed (this is called the Rotterdam Criteria).
PCOS can affect your menstrual cycle, skin, metabolism, mood, fertility—and more. It’s a whole-body condition that goes beyond reproductive health.
➡️ Take our 5-minute quiz to explore your symptoms
What Are the Symptoms of PCOS?
PCOS doesn’t look the same for everyone. That’s why many people go undiagnosed for years.
Some of the most common signs include:
- Irregular or absent periods
- Persistent acne (especially jawline/chin)
- Excess hair growth on the face or body (hirsutism)
- Scalp hair thinning
- Unexplained weight gain or difficulty losing weight
- Fatigue and low energy
- Trouble conceiving
- Mood swings or anxiety
You don’t need to have all of these to have PCOS. Even two or three symptoms could be enough to investigate further.
➡️ Read: 7 Early Symptoms of PCOS & When to Get Checked
What Causes PCOS?
There’s no single cause, but research suggests it’s a mix of:
- Insulin resistance: Your body struggles to process insulin, leading to high blood sugar and increased testosterone
- Hormonal imbalance: Androgens disrupt ovulation and period regularity
- Genetics: PCOS often runs in families
- Chronic inflammation: Can play a role in hormonal disruption
Important note: You did not cause your PCOS. It’s not your fault—and it can be managed.
Expert Insight
💡 “PCOS is one of the most common yet misunderstood conditions in women. Getting an early, accurate diagnosis is the key to long-term health—not just for fertility, but for metabolism, mood, and more.”
How Is PCOS Diagnosed?
To confirm PCOS, doctors will typically use the Rotterdam Criteria: you need at least two of the following:
- Irregular ovulation or periods
- Elevated androgens (seen in symptoms or lab results)
- Polycystic ovaries on ultrasound
Tests you may be offered include:
- Hormone blood tests: Testosterone, DHEA-S, LH/FSH ratio
- Pelvic ultrasound: To check for small follicles in the ovaries
- Blood sugar and insulin tests
- Thyroid and prolactin levels (to rule out other causes)
Read: How to Get an Accurate PCOS Diagnosis Through Testing
How Is PCOS Treated?
There’s no “one-size-fits-all” solution—but many tools exist.
Lifestyle Adjustments
- A balanced, blood-sugar-stabilizing diet
- Regular movement (especially strength training and walking)
- Stress management (journaling, therapy, breathwork)
Medical Support
- Birth control pills: Help regulate cycles and reduce androgen-related symptoms
- Metformin: Improves insulin resistance
- Spironolactone: Helps with acne and excess hair
- Letrozole or clomid: Induce ovulation for those trying to conceive
Supplements (Check with your doctor)
- Inositol (for ovulation and insulin sensitivity)
- Zinc, magnesium, omega-3s, vitamin D
➡️ Learn more about our Care Navigator support
Real-Life Story
“I had no idea my irregular periods and acne were connected until a friend mentioned PCOS. Getting diagnosed helped me understand my body. I started treatment and made small changes—and now my cycles are back and my energy is better than ever.”
— May, 29
Myth vs Reality
| Myth | Reality |
| “PCOS always means cysts on your ovaries.” | Many don’t have visible cysts. You can still have PCOS. |
| “Only overweight women get PCOS.” | PCOS affects all body types—including lean women. |
| “It’s just a fertility issue.” | PCOS impacts hormones, metabolism, skin, and mental health. |
| “You just need to go on the pill.” | The pill helps symptoms but isn’t a long-term fix or cure. |
Final Thoughts
If you’re newly diagnosed or just learning about PCOS, it can feel overwhelming. But it doesn’t have to be.
This condition is common—and manageable.
The key is understanding your unique symptoms, finding the right care, and creating a plan that works for you.
You’re not broken. You’re not alone. You can feel better—with the right support.
Sources
Anna Haotanto is the Founder of Zora Health and a passionate advocate for women’s empowerment. Anna’s personal experiences with egg-freezing, PCOS, perimenopause and the challenges of fertility have fueled her mission to provide high-quality information, financing, and support to help women and couples navigate their fertility journeys with confidence. She is also recognised for her achievements in finance, entrepreneurship, and women’s empowerment, and has been featured in various media outlets. You can also follow her on Linkedin or Instagram.
