Menstrual Irregularities:
* Infrequent or prolonged periods: This is often the most prominent symptom. Periods may be longer than seven days, occur less frequently than every 35 days, or be absent altogether.
* Heavy bleeding: Some women experience unusually heavy menstrual bleeding.
* Amenorrhea (absence of periods): This can be a significant symptom.
Ovarian and Hormonal Issues:
* High levels of androgens: These male hormones can lead to several symptoms (see below).
* Polycystic ovaries: Ultrasound may reveal ovaries with many small cysts. However, this isn't always present in women with PCOS. The term "polycystic" refers to the appearance of the ovaries on ultrasound, not necessarily the presence of many cysts.
Physical Symptoms Related to Androgen Excess:
* Acne: Persistent or severe acne is common.
* Hirsutism (excess hair growth): This can appear on the face, chest, back, and abdomen.
* Male-pattern baldness or thinning hair: Hair loss can occur on the scalp.
* Weight gain: Difficulty losing weight or weight gain, particularly around the abdomen, is frequently seen.
* Darkening of the skin: This can occur in areas like the skin folds (neck, armpits, groin) – known as acanthosis nigricans.
Other Potential Symptoms:
* Infertility: PCOS is a leading cause of infertility.
* Sleep apnea: Disrupted breathing during sleep.
* Anxiety and depression: These mental health conditions are more common in women with PCOS.
* Insulin resistance: This means the body doesn't use insulin effectively, leading to higher blood sugar levels. This can increase the risk of type 2 diabetes.
Important Note: It's crucial to remember that not every woman with PCOS will experience all of these symptoms. Some may have only a few, while others may have many. A diagnosis should be made by a healthcare professional, who will consider your medical history, perform a physical exam, and possibly order blood tests and/or an ultrasound. If you're concerned about any of these symptoms, it's essential to consult a doctor.