Symptoms of PCOS

Q: I think I may have PCOS. What are the typical symptoms?

A: PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) is a major cause of ovulation problems and infertility. In fact, infertility, obesity, and menstrual anomalies such as amenorrhea (no period) are often the first indication of PCOS. But no two women have exactly the same symptoms, and that makes the diagnosis of PCOS and it's treatment often very difficult. The following are the major characteristics that are often associated with PCOS:

• Amenorrhea (lack of menstrual periods)
• Anovulation and irregular periods
• Hirsutism (excessive hair growth on the face, chest, abdomen, etc.)
• Hair loss (androgenic alopecia, in a classic "male baldness" pattern)
• Acne
• Polycystic ovaries
• Enlarged ovaries
• Increased levels of male hormones (hyperandogenism)
• Obesity
• Infertility or reduced fertility
• Pelvic pain
• Insulin resistance
• Diabetes
• High blood pressure
• Lipid abnormalities
• Skin problems, such as acne, oily skin, dark skin patches, or skin tags