7 Signs of PCOS
Increased Hair Growth
One of the common symptoms of PCOS is hirsutism, which is the excessive growth of body hair. This happens due to high levels of testosterone in the female body. Humans have two types of hair: vellus and terminal. Vellus hairs are fine and soft, typical for most women. Terminal hairs are darker and coarser, usually found in a man’s beard. Women with PCOS may notice an increase in terminal hair on their face or body.
Discolored Areas of Skin
PCOS can cause certain areas of the skin to become discolored. These discolorations often appear in skin folds, such as the armpits, and are sometimes mistaken for signs of diabetes. However, they are usually caused by weight gain and are a strong indicator of PCOS.
Obesity and/or Weight Gain
Unexplained weight gain is often a hallmark of PCOS. It’s important to note that any sudden weight gain can be concerning. Women who are already overweight or obese have a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes, which ties into the next point.
Elevated Insulin Levels and Insulin Resistance
A study published in 2012 in the journal Women’s Health noted that many women with PCOS either have type 1 diabetes or are at an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Further research in Clinical Diabetes suggests that PCOS might be a precursor to diabetes. The relationship between diabetes and PCOS is complex, but it’s known that the PCOS body can produce excess insulin, potentially leading to insulin resistance.
Oily Skin and Acne
Another side effect of high testosterone levels in women with PCOS is oily skin and acne. While all women have some level of testosterone, those with PCOS have much higher levels, which can lead to hormonal acne.
Dandruff
No one likes dealing with dandruff, but the type associated with PCOS is different from the flakes caused by dry skin. This dandruff, known as seborrheic dermatitis, is caused by hormonal imbalances.
Irregular Menstrual Periods
PCOS can be diagnosed even if not all symptoms are present, but all women with PCOS will experience either irregular periods or a complete absence of their menstrual cycle. This happens because the ovaries have elevated levels of testosterone, which interferes with egg release, ultimately leading to infertility issues.
