Understanding PCOS: A Guide to PCOS Diagnosis and Symptoms

PCOS, or Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, is a common endocrine and metabolic condition that affects women worldwide. Unfortunately, it is often undiagnosed.

According to the World Health Organization, PCOS affects 8-13% of women worldwide, with an astonishing 70% of these women remaining undiagnosed. Many suffer from debilitating symptoms and feel dismissed by their healthcare providers. It can take years to receive a proper diagnosis.

Women can begin experiencing symptoms during adolescence. These include irregular periods and cystic acne, which may persist into adulthood. Symptoms like unwanted hair growth and weight gain can also emerge, increasing the risk of diabetes and infertility.

PCOS is common, but commonly undiagnosed

Let's debunk the top PCOS myths so you can be informed and empowered in advocating for your health.

PCOS Diagnosis: Symptoms, Criteria, and Myths

The root cause of PCOS is still not fully understood, primarily due to a lack of research and funding for women's health. However, it is known that PCOS is characterized by inflammation, insulin dysregulation, and gut dysbiosis.

For instance, over 70% of women with PCOS have insulin resistance. As a health coach, I recommend my clients consider using a Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM) to complement the nutrition and lifestyle changes we discuss.

In PCOS, the ovaries respond to insulin, often exacerbated by a high-carb and processed food diet. This response encourages the ovaries to produce more testosterone. As testosterone levels rise, this can lead to insulin resistance—a vicious cycle.

Symptoms of PCOS

Understanding the symptoms of PCOS is crucial for an accurate diagnosis. Here are some common indicators:

1. Many doctors view PCOS primarily from a reproductive angle. However, symptoms can arise well before infertility becomes a concern. Symptoms include irregular periods, anovulation (absence of ovulation), and reduced ovulation frequency. Without regular ovulation, it is challenging to have regular periods, making conception difficult.

   
   

2. Other symptoms involve hyperandrogenism. This can manifest as hair loss on the scalp and unwanted hair growth on areas like the chin, chest, and abdomen. Cystic acne on the chin and back is also common due to elevated testosterone levels.

   
   

3. Insulin resistance can lead to blood irregularities. This can contribute to unwanted weight gain, particularly around the midsection. Many women struggle to lose excess weight and maintain a healthy weight.

   
   

4. Finally, we cannot overlook the mental toll PCOS takes on women's health. This can include feelings of depression, anxiety, body image issues, low self-esteem, and challenges related to infertility.

   
   

Phew… that's quite a list!

Criteria for PCOS Diagnosis

The formal criteria for diagnosing PCOS relies on the Rotterdam criteria. For a diagnosis, two of the following three symptoms must be present. No lab tests are required:

1. Anovulation: This includes irregular or absent periods. Tracking your menstrual cycle is essential, even if you're in your 40s. Start tracking your symptoms to gather your health data. This is vital for reclaiming your health.

   
   

2. Hyperandrogenism: Excess androgens can be measured in the blood (like DHEA sulfate) and often lead to symptoms such as hair loss on the scalp, unwanted hair growth, and cystic acne.

   
   

3. Polycystic Ovaries: This can be diagnosed through an internal ultrasound or by identifying high levels of Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH).

   
   

Now let's look at some common myths about PCOS.

Common Myths About PCOS

1. Birth Control as the Only Treatment: Contrary to popular belief, birth control pills do not regulate or restore a natural cycle; they stop ovulation entirely, potentially worsening infertility.

   
   

2. Ultrasound Requirement for Diagnosis: PCOS can be diagnosed without an ultrasound. The cysts often referred to are actually follicles struggling to ovulate.

   
   

3. Weight Gain Causes PCOS: Many believe that weight gain is the cause of PCOS; in reality, weight gain is a symptom, not a cause. While losing weight can alleviate some symptoms, it won't eradicate the diagnosis.

   
   

4. PCOS Only Affects Overweight Women: Women of all body types can be affected by PCOS. Being slender does not exclude the possibility of having this condition.

   
   

Taking Charge of Your Health

If you've experienced symptoms like irregular periods, acne, or excess body hair, they may indicate the presence of PCOS. It's essential to understand your health and advocate for yourself. You deserve to live a healthy and fulfilling life.

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For further insights, read more about PCOS and what foods to eat.