Learn to recognize the signs of PCOS with Meri Sehat. Be informed and take proactive steps for your well-being.

8 Signs You Have PCOS

PCOS, or polycystic ovary syndrome, is a common hormonal disorder. It affects about 27% of women during their reproductive years.

Introduction

Understanding signs of PCOS

If you have PCOS, here&#39;s how your doctor will diagnose it:<a href="#accordion">[3]</a>

<ol>
	<li>
	<h5>You Have Ovarian Cysts</h5>
	</li>
</ol>

An ultrasound is one of the first tests that doctors recommend. The scan creates images of the inside of your body by using high-frequency sound waves.

A transvaginal ultrasound, in which the ultrasound probe is placed inside the vagina, is usually recommended. If you are a virgin or are nervous about the procedure, your doctor may recommend an abdominal ultrasound, in which the probe is placed on top of the abdomen. An abdominal ultrasound, on the other hand, may not show your ovaries in detail. 
&nbsp;

Ultrasound is most effective on days 2-7 of the <a href="https://merisehat.pk/article/how-your-menstrual-cycle-affects-your-mental-health">menstrual cycle</a>, and on a full bladder. If you are amenorrheic, your doctor may recommend a scan at random or 2-5 days after progesterone-induced bleeding<a href="#accordion">[1]</a>.

The test aids in the diagnosis of PCOS in nearly 90% of women<a href="#accordion">[2]</a>. If you have PCOS, your uterine lining will be thicker than normal, confirming another symptom - irregular or absent periods. They may also show enlarged ovaries that are three times the size of normal. 
&nbsp;

<ol start="2">
	<li>
	<h5>Your Androgen Levels Are High</h5>
	</li>
</ol>

Another test, yes. This time, however, a blood sample will be drawn to test for male hormones.

Most women with PCOS have insulin resistance, which can lead to an increase in androgens in their bodies. However, androgens are occasionally produced as a result of chronic, low-grade inflammation caused by injury or infection. A higher level of androgen causes additional symptoms, such as male-pattern baldness. 
&nbsp;

<ol start="3">
	<li>
	<h5>Your Menstrual Periods Are Irregular</h5>
	</li>
</ol>

Ovulatory dysfunction, also known as irregular periods, refers to absent or unusually long cycles. Some women with PCOS get fewer than 8 periods a year. And some people just do not get it<a href="#accordion">[3]</a>!

This is because a lack of ovulation prevents the uterine lining from shedding each month. It can be worrisome because not ovulating regularly indicates that your body is not producing a sufficient number of eggs to be fertilized.

As a result, PCOS is regarded as one of the leading causes of female infertility. Moreover, not ovulating every month increases the risk of endometrial cancer<a href="#accordion">[3]</a>. 
&nbsp;

<ol start="4">
	<li>
	<h5>You Have Heavy Bleeding Each Month</h5>
	</li>
</ol>

Your uterine lining has been accumulating for quite some time. So, when it sheds, your periods are naturally heavier than usual. 
&nbsp;

<ol start="5">
	<li>
	<h5>Your Metabolism Is Affected</h5>
	</li>
</ol>

Your doctor would order a series of blood tests to determine the levels of these hormones<a href="#accordion">[2]</a>. The results not only help diagnose PCOS but also rule out other conditions with similar symptoms, such as tumors, thyroid problems, and hyperplasia.

<ul>
	<li>Glucose Test: Diabetes affects more than half of all PCOS women. The risk of high blood sugar is increased when PCOS and obesity coexist.</li>
	<li>Lipid Profile: Since PCOS increases the risk of heart disease, it is important to check triglycerides and cholesterol levels.</li>
	<li>Insulin: This can be used to assess how effectively your body is combating insulin resistance.</li>
	<li>FSH And LH: If you have PCOS, your levels of follicle-stimulating hormone fall while your levels of luteinizing hormone rise.</li>
	<li>Estrogen And Testosterone: If you have PCOS, your estrogen levels will be high or the same as normal. Additionally, your testosterone levels will be high.</li>
	<li>Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG): This helps determine whether these changes are truly caused by PCOS or by pregnancy for girls and women who are sexually active. 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

<ol start="6">
	<li>
	<h5>You Have A Family History Of PCOS</h5>
	</li>
</ol>

Numerous studies have shown that if other women in your family also have PCOS, you may also develop the condition. There are numerous genes that affect it<a href="#accordion">[3]</a>. 
&nbsp;

<ol start="7">
	<li>
	<h5>Characteristic Physical Symptoms? Check!</h5>
	</li>
</ol>

You can receive this &quot;reality check&quot; that you might have PCOS during a physical examination at a medical facility. It consists of:

<ul>
	<li>High BMI</li>
	<li>Headaches</li>
	<li>Oily skin and acne</li>
	<li>Male pattern baldness</li>
	<li>Extra hair growth or hirsutism</li>
	<li>Discolored skin patches in body creases 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

<ol start="8">
	<li>
	<h5>You Have Anxiety And Depression</h5>
	</li>
</ol>

This is more than just emotional exhaustion. The majority of PCOS women experience depression and anxiety<a href="#accordion">[3]</a>.

The hormonal changes caused by PCOS, as well as unwanted physical changes (e.g., hair loss, weight gain, infertility) and the social stigma associated with these changes, may have a negative impact on you. 
&nbsp;

Remember that not all PCOS women will exhibit every symptom<a href="#accordion">[5]</a>. If you suspect you have PCOS, please see a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment. 
&nbsp;

Key Takeaways

<ul>
	<li>The Endocrine Society guidelines state that meeting 2 of 3 criteria - excess androgen, polycystic ovaries, and ovulatory dysfunction - can aid in the diagnosis of PCOS<a href="#accordion">[5]</a>.</li>
	<li>While PCOS is a common health problem, girls and women are frequently misdiagnosed or underdiagnosed.</li>
	<li>Periods are irregular or the cycle is longer than it should be when progesterone levels are low.</li>
	<li>Miscarriages, premature births, and infertility are all more likely to occur because ovaries are unable to produce and release eggs.</li>
	<li>Physical changes in PCOS patients can include acne, male-pattern hair loss on the head, excessive body and facial hair growth, and unexpected weight gain.</li>
	<li>Other physical changes that may occur include dark, velvety patches of skin and skin tags.</li>
	<li>Certain mood disorders, sleep disorders, eating disorders, and psychological disorders are common complications in people with PCOS. They are frequently associated with low self-esteem and a lack of support.</li>
	<li>A family history of PCOS is a major risk factor. It can help with early detection and diagnosis of PCOS.</li>
</ul>

[1] Amreen S. Ultrasound in polycystic ovarian syndrome: What? when? how? why? who? European Medical Journal.

[2] PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) diagnosis &amp; blood tests. WebMD.

[3] Watson S. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Healthline

[4] Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). JHM

[5] Migala J, Upham B, Migala J, Salomon SH, Levine B, Marks JL. What is PCOS? symptoms, causes, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. EverydayHealth.com.

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