PCOS Early Warning Signs: Millions of women are affected by the problem of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, but due to a lack of correct information, people ignore these symptoms, considering them to be normal.

What are the symptoms of PCOS?

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Symptoms: PCOS, or Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, is a condition that affects millions of women, yet it's rarely discussed openly. Nearly one in five women in India suffers from PCOS, yet the condition often goes undiagnosed for years. The main reason for this is that its early symptoms often seem very mild. Let's explain its symptoms and why it shouldn't be ignored. 

Most women ignore these symptoms. 

Weight gain, mood swings, irregular periods, fatigue – most women ignore these symptoms, considering them to be the effects of stress, lifestyle, or age. However, these signs can actually point to an ongoing imbalance in the body's hormones and metabolism. One challenge of PCOS is that it doesn't appear the same in every woman. Some women experience sudden weight gain, especially around the abdomen. Some suffer from persistent acne or unwanted hair growth on the face and body. Many women experience irregular periods or excessive pain and bleeding.

What do experts say?

According to experts, a major reason for this delay is a lack of awareness. Polycystic ovary syndrome is not discussed in schools. Families dismiss early symptoms as puberty problems or normal weight gain. Women themselves often don't understand that mood swings, acne, or irregular periods can be signs of a hormonal disorder. Polycystic ovary syndrome is common, but it shouldn't be ignored. If certain changes in the body persist for a long time and seem unusual, it's crucial to consult a doctor. The sooner it's identified, the better it can be controlled.

PCOS myths to stop believing

According to Shashi Sinha, a senior doctor at Matru Seva Superspeciality in Patna, many women attribute PCOS symptoms solely to lifestyle or stress. However, these changes in weight, mood, skin, and periods can be the result of a hormonal imbalance.

What are its symptoms?

Weight gain without lifestyle changes – In PCOS, insulin does not work properly, due to which fat starts accumulating rapidly around the stomach.

Frequent mood swings – Hormonal imbalance can cause irritability, anxiety, and sadness.

Irregular periods – In PCOS, due to improper ovulation, the cycle gets disrupted or periods are missed.

Stubborn acne and oily skin – Increased male hormones in the body lead to severe acne on the face, jawline, and back.

Hair loss or thinning – Excessive androgen hormones weaken the hair in the front of the head or the crown area.

Unwanted hair on the face or body – Due to hormonal imbalance, hair starts growing on the chin, face, chest or stomach.

Feeling constantly tired – Hormone and insulin problems affect the body's energy, causing fatigue all the time.