You’ve heard the term PCOS tossed around—maybe during a doctor’s visit, maybe from a friend—but what does it actually mean?
Is it about cysts? Hormones? Fertility? Weight?
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common yet misunderstood hormonal disorders in women of reproductive age. And if you’ve been struggling with irregular periods, unexplained acne, fatigue, or fertility challenges, this might be the puzzle piece you’ve been missing.
In this article, we’ll explain:
- What PCOS is and how it affects your body
- What symptoms to watch for
- What causes it (spoiler: it’s not your fault)
- What treatment options are available
Let’s break it down clearly—because knowledge is the first step to feeling better.
What Is PCOS?
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder that impacts how the ovaries function. It affects at least 1 in 10 women, though many remain undiagnosed for years.
The name is misleading—you don’t need ovarian cysts to have PCOS, and not all cysts are a problem.
The key issues in PCOS are:
- Elevated androgens (male hormones like testosterone)
- Irregular or absent ovulation
- Insulin resistance in many cases
These imbalances disrupt your menstrual cycle, metabolism, skin, hair, mood, and sometimes fertility.
Common Symptoms of PCOS
PCOS doesn’t look the same for everyone. That’s part of what makes it hard to diagnose.
Here are some of the most common signs:
- Irregular or missed periods
- Oily skin and acne (especially on the lower face and jawline)
- Excess facial or body hair (chin, chest, stomach)
- Hair thinning on the scalp
- Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
- Fatigue and brain fog
- Cravings or blood sugar crashes
- Trouble conceiving
Some people experience most of these. Others only have one or two.
➡️ Read: 7 Early Symptoms of PCOS & When to Get Checked
What Causes PCOS?
The exact cause of PCOS isn’t fully understood—but experts believe it’s a combination of genetics, hormones, and lifestyle.
Key contributors:
- Insulin resistance: Many people with PCOS have trouble using insulin efficiently, which can increase testosterone levels
- Hormonal imbalance: Elevated androgens prevent regular ovulation
- Chronic inflammation: Low-grade inflammation may contribute to PCOS symptoms
- Family history: PCOS often runs in families
PCOS isn’t caused by something you did—or didn’t do. But there are ways to manage it.
Expert Insight
“PCOS is a syndrome, not a disease—meaning it shows up differently for every person. Diagnosis and treatment should be personalized, not one-size-fits-all.”
How Is PCOS Diagnosed?
There’s no single test for PCOS. Diagnosis is usually based on Rotterdam criteria, which means you need at least 2 of the following 3:
- Irregular or absent periods
- Signs of high androgens (acne, hair growth, or elevated testosterone)
- Polycystic ovaries seen on ultrasound (12+ follicles per ovary or increased ovarian volume)
Doctors will also rule out other conditions like thyroid disorders or high prolactin.
Recommended tests include:
- Hormone panel (LH, FSH, testosterone, DHEA-S)
- Pelvic ultrasound
- Fasting glucose and insulin
- Thyroid and prolactin levels
➡️ Read: How to Get an Accurate PCOS Diagnosis Through Testing
Treatment Options for PCOS
While there’s no “cure” for PCOS, it can be effectively managed—with lifestyle shifts, medications, and medical support.
Lifestyle Interventions
- Balanced blood sugar: Focus on whole foods, fiber, and protein
- Exercise: Strength training + walking support insulin sensitivity
- Stress reduction: Chronic cortisol elevation worsens hormonal symptoms
Medications
- Birth control pills: Regulate cycles and reduce androgen-related symptoms
- Metformin: Improves insulin sensitivity
- Spironolactone: Blocks effects of excess testosterone
- Ovulation inducers (e.g., letrozole or clomid) for fertility support
Supplements (speak to your doctor first)
- Inositol (supports ovulation and insulin regulation)
- Vitamin D
- Zinc
- Omega-3s
➡️ Explore our Care Navigator services for personalized PCOS support
Real-Life Story
“For years, I thought my symptoms were just ‘normal for me.’ It wasn’t until a specialist tested my hormones that everything clicked. With the right plan, my periods are now regular—and I finally feel like I understand my body.”
— Tasha, 32
Myth vs Reality
| Myth | Reality |
| “You need ovarian cysts to have PCOS.” | Not true—you can be diagnosed without them. |
| “It only affects overweight women.” | PCOS impacts people of all body sizes. |
| “Just go on the pill.” | The pill can help symptoms, but it doesn’t treat root causes. |
| “You can’t get pregnant with PCOS.” | Many people with PCOS conceive—with or without help. |
Final Thoughts
PCOS is more than just a reproductive condition—it’s a full-body hormonal and metabolic issue that deserves better understanding, support, and care.
Whether you’re newly diagnosed or just starting to connect the dots, know this:
There are answers. There are tools. And you’re not alone.
Call to Action
👉 Wondering if you might have PCOS?
Take our free 5-minute hormone health quiz to get personalized insight into your symptoms—and what to do next.
👉 https://zorahealth.co/quiz/reproductive-health
Sources
- CDC – PCOS Facts
- NIH – PCOS Overview
- Endocrine Society – PCOS Guidelines
- Mayo Clinic – PCOS Diagnosis & Treatment
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.
