Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common hormonal conditions in women of reproductive age. The World Health Organization estimates it affects about 10–13% of them, yet up to 70% of those affected are undiagnosed.
Common symptoms
PCOS looks different from person to person. Possible signs include:
- irregular, infrequent or absent periods, or sometimes heavy ones
- difficulty getting pregnant
- extra facial or body hair, or thinning hair on the scalp
- acne and oily skin
- mood changes, anxiety and depression
Over time, the risk of type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease can also rise, which is why getting help early matters.
How is it diagnosed?
According to WHO, diagnosis needs at least two of three criteria: signs of raised androgens (excess hair, acne, hair loss or high testosterone), irregular or absent periods, and polycystic ovaries on ultrasound. Notably, some women with PCOS do not have polycystic ovaries.