PCOS- Common Symptoms and Effects on Menstrual Health

In the United States alone, around 5-6 million people are impacted by diagnosed PCOS (Endocrine Society, 2022). This condition, short for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, involves the development of small fluid-filled sacs, or cysts, in the ovaries. These cysts contain immature eggs that, unlike those without PCOS, fail to release periodically. 

Since PCOS affects ovulation, it naturally affects the regularity of the entire menstrual cycle. With PCOS, both extremes of the spectrum are a possibility. Many people have more irregular, or fewer, menstrual periods than an average person; an irregular period is defined as eight or fewer cycles within a year. Others may experience amenorrhea – the absence of a period for more than three consecutive cycles – which is one major cause of infertility in PCOS patients. On the other hand, patients may have extremely lengthy and heavy periods, characterized as menorrhagia. Periods that last for seven days or longer are more protracted than the average, and PCOS periods are generally reported to be more painful as well. 

Other common signs and symptoms of PCOS include abnormally heavy hair growth – typically on the face, chest, abdomen, and arms – persistent acne, fluctuating weight, and hair loss. Hormonal irregularity paired with the condition often causes extreme mood changes and leaves patients more vulnerable to anxiety and depression. PCOS is also the number one cause of infertility in patients and may cause complications during labor and delivery.

To help alleviate particular symptoms and improve one’s quality of life with PCOS, maintaining a healthy diet and regular exercise can be incredibly impactful. These have the potential to not only reduce the side effects of PCOS but also regulate one’s menstrual cycle. While these practical changes can be effective on their own, doctors may also prescribe medication to go along with them: birth control pills, topical creams, and various hormone therapies are increasingly common treatments. Treatment and management of PCOS varies from patient to patient, typically personalized to suit and relieve one’s unique symptoms. 

Written by Tahreem Yasin

References

1. Endocrine Society. (2022, March 31). Polycystic ovary syndrome. https://www.endocrine.org/patient-engagement/endocrine-library/pcos 

2. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2022, September 8). Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pcos/symptoms-causes/syc-20353439 

3. Northside Gynaecology. (2021, September 3). What are periods like when you have PCOS? https://www.northsidegynaecology.com.au/what-are-periods-like-when-you-have-pcos/ 

4. Professional, C. C. medical. (n.d.). PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome): Symptoms & treatment. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/8316-polycystic-ovary-syndrome-pcos