10 symptoms of PCOS you shouldn’t ignore
- Esther Tran-Le
- Apr 20
- 5 min read
Your experience is valid — and so are your symptoms.
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) affects millions of women and people assigned female at birth (AFAB) worldwide. Despite its prevalence, PCOS often goes undiagnosed due to its wide range of symptoms and lack of awareness. Much more research is needed into the causes, diagnosis, and treatment of PCOS. But if you’ve been experiencing irregular periods, unexpected weight gain, or stubborn acne, perhaps you’re wondering if PCOS is the underlying cause.
In this post, we cover some of the most common PCOS symptoms, how they can manifest in your body, and tips for advocating for your health to get the care you need.
What is PCOS?
PCOS is a common hormonal disorder that affects 10% of women and people AFAB. It’s not a disease, but a syndrome — meaning it presents as a cluster of symptoms rather than one single issue. Because of this, it can look different from person to person. This is also why it can take time to get an official diagnosis from your doctor.
While much is still unknown about the exact causes, it’s generally characterized by the prevalence of a few main factors including irregular periods, high androgen levels (androgens are sex hormones such as testosterone that can throw reproductive hormones off balance), and cysts on the ovaries. Insulin resistance is also common in people with PCOS, affecting 50% of patients, which can lead to type 2 diabetes and other metabolic disorders.
So, what are the signs and symptoms of PCOS to look out for? Let’s get into it.
10 common symptoms of PCOS
1. Irregular or missed periods
One of the most common indicators of PCOS is an irregular menstrual cycle. This may include:
Long gaps between periods
Extremely heavy bleeding
Missed periods altogether
These irregularities occur because PCOS disrupts ovulation, making it difficult for the body to maintain a regular cycle. If your periods are inconsistent or absent, it’s a good idea to bring it up to your healthcare provider.
2. Excess hair growth (aka hirsutism)
PCOS is associated with higher-than-normal androgen levels, which can lead to excessive hair growth in areas such as:
Face (upper lip, chin, sideburns)
Chest
Stomach
Back
Studies suggest that up to 70% of women with PCOS grow unwanted hair on their face and body, which can be challenging for many reasons. Managing hirsutism often involves a combination of hormonal treatments, laser hair removal, and lifestyle changes.
3. Adult acne and oily skin
Hormonal imbalances due to PCOS can trigger breakouts, particularly along the jawline, chin, and back. What’s more, acne caused by PCOS is often more persistent and resistant to standard treatments. Increased oil production can also lead to clogged pores and cystic acne, which may require medical intervention.
4. Weight gain and difficulty losing weight
Many people with PCOS struggle with weight gain, particularly around the midsection. Insulin resistance can make it harder to process sugars and store energy properly, leading to fluctuations in weight.
Even with a focus on diet and exercise, people with PCOS may find it challenging to lose weight, which can be frustrating (to say the least!). However, seeking support from multiple specialists in addition to your primary care provider, such as a nutritionist, can help you find targeted care plans to help balance your blood sugar and improve your metabolic health.
5. Thinning hair or hair loss (female pattern baldness)
Just as excess androgens can cause unwanted hair growth, they can also lead to thinning hair on the scalp. This may appear as:
A widening part
Increased hair shedding
Hair loss at the temples
Androgenic alopecia (female pattern baldness) can be distressing, but it’s a manageable symptom and is often treated with topical or hormonal therapies.
6. Dark patches on the skin (acanthosis nigricans)
Insulin resistance can also cause dark, velvety patches of skin to appear on the body, including in areas such as:
Neck
Armpits
Under the breasts
Groin area
These patches are a sign that insulin levels are higher than they should be. If you notice these changes, it’s worth bringing it up with your doctor.
7. Skin tags
Small, harmless skin growths known as skin tags frequently appear in people with PCOS, especially in areas where the skin folds, such as:
The neck
Underarms
Groin
While skin tags are harmless, it’s smart to pay attention to everything that’s going on with your body. Their appearance can be a subtle indicator of insulin resistance and other metabolic concerns.
8. Chronic fatigue and brain fog
Feeling constantly exhausted, even after a full night’s sleep, is also common in people with PCOS. This could be due to:
Blood sugar imbalances
Poor sleep quality
Hormonal fluctuations
Many people report struggling with “brain fog” or that “wired-but-tired” feeling of sluggishness or difficulty concentrating. Managing blood sugar levels and prioritizing sleep hygiene (aka regular sleep schedules) can help combat fatigue.
9. Mood swings, anxiety, and depression
Hormonal imbalances from PCOS can impact your ability to regulate mood, making people with PCOS at a higher risk for:
Anxiety
Depression
Mood swings
The emotional toll of dealing with PCOS symptoms — especially those affecting appearance, fertility, and self-image — can affect your mental health. Seeking professional support from a therapist or psychologist and adopting stress-management techniques can be great additions to your care team and care plan.
10. Fertility challenges and difficulty getting pregnant
While difficulty getting pregnant is technically not a “symptom” of PCOS, fertility challenges are common due to lack of regular ovulation. However, while it may be harder to conceive naturally, with proper medical support — including lifestyle modifications and fertility treatments — many people with PCOS do conceive successfully.
When to see a doctor
Keep in mind that it can take a long time to get an official diagnosis, partly because there’s no single diagnostic test. But if you’re experiencing one or multiple of these symptoms, it’s a good idea to seek medical advice.
Based on what’s known as the Rotterdam Criteria, many providers typically diagnose PCOS based on the presence of at least two of the following:
Irregular periods
High androgen levels
Small cysts on the ovaries (visible via ultrasound)
Taking control of your health
Dealing with PCOS, whether you’ve been diagnosed or not, can be overwhelming. But don’t forget: you’re not alone. Understanding your symptoms and how they show up in your body is the first step toward getting the care you need and being a better advocate for your health.
MyAdvo advocacy tips:
Track your symptoms – Keep a journal with specific details about changes in your cycle, skin, hair, and mood to share with your doctor. It will help you stand firm as you share your experience.
Don’t settle for dismissive care – If your concerns are ignored, seek a second opinion. Remember: you are the expert on your body and what you’re feeling.
Prioritize whole-body care – People with PCOS often rely on a variety of specialists depending on their goals including an endocrinologist, fertility specialist, dermatologist, and more.
Join a supportive community – Connecting with others who are dealing with PCOS can make a huge difference in your emotional and overall well-being. That’s why MyAdvo is here!
By staying informed and proactive about your health, you CAN take control of your PCOS journey. And remember, your symptoms are valid! You deserve to be heard and supported!
Become a MyAdvo member today to connect with and support others who know what you’re going through.
Learn more about PCOS in our PCOS 101 Guide.
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