The Difference Between PCO And PCOS: Learn How To Get The Diagnosis You Deserve

How is PCOS diagnosed?

Unlike many other syndromes, PCOS isn’t usually diagnosed with one quick trip to the doctor’s office. PCOS, or polycystic ovary syndrome, is a genetic, hormonal disorder affecting 1 in 10 women of childbearing age (15-44 years old). Unfortunately, existing information and studies around the condition are often misunderstood, making PCOS an under-diagnosed condition. PCOS dramatically affects women’s health and leaves them to face several different challenges. Even though girls as young as 11 years old have been found to have PCOS, usually women aren’t diagnosed until their 20s or 30s. It’s never too early or too late to receive a diagnosis for PCOS. Understanding the condition and advocating for your health is the key to getting proper treatment. We are here to provide you with the education and support needed to do so. Read on to learn more about PCOS, including symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment.

What exactly is PCOS?

Polycystic ovary syndrome is caused by an imbalance of hormones. Three hormones play a role in PCOS. Androgens are often called male hormones, but women have them too. Women with PCOS tend to have a higher level of androgens. Insulin manages blood sugar. Those with PCOS might not react to insulin the way it should. Women with PCOS may not have enough progesterone hormone, which causes missed periods. This imbalance of hormones creates a problem in the ovaries, causing them to develop many small follicles. With PCOS, the egg doesn’t mature or may not release during ovulation as it should. PCOS infertility is the most common and most treatable form of female infertility.   

PCOS Symptoms

PCOS symptoms look different for everyone because PCOS affects every woman differently. Some of the most common symptoms include:

• Missed or irregular periods

• Acne

• Excess body hair

• Weight gain

• Pelvic pain

• Thinning hair on the scalp

• Skin tags

• Darkening of the skin (specifically along the neck crease, groin, and beneath breasts)

• Infertility

Again, it’s important to remember that not everyone with PCOS experiences all of these symptoms. For example, not everyone who is affected by PCOS will struggle with their weight, but women with the condition are more likely to be overweight. Weight struggles are common with PCOS due to the high levels of insulin and androgens.

What causes PCOS?

While the exact cause of PCOS is not known, experts believe that there are several factors, including genetics, that play a role. Women who are obese and women with a mother, sister, or aunt with PCOS may be at a higher risk of having the condition.