What Is PCOS? Symptoms, Diagnosis and Management

Although it is finally gaining more attention as one of the most common hormonal conditions affecting women of reproductive age, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome—more commonly known by its acronym, PCOS—can still be difficult to diagnose, and some women may go years without knowing they have it.

Part of the challenge is that many symptoms associated with PCOS can overlap with other conditions. Irregular or absent periods, for example, can have several possible causes, while symptoms such as fatigue, weight changes and menstrual irregularities can also occur with thyroid disorders. This is why thyroid dysfunction is one of the conditions doctors may need to rule out when evaluating someone for PCOS.

What Is PCOS?

PCOS is a hormonal and metabolic disorder that affects ovarian function and can influence many other systems throughout the body. Women with PCOS may experience:

• Acne and oily skin

• Irregular, infrequent or absent periods

• Unexplained weight gain or difficulty losing weight

• Hirsutism (excess body hair, especially on the face and chest)

• Insulin resistance and an increased risk of Type 2 diabetes

• Mood changes, anxiety and depression

• Fatigue and sleep disturbances

• Thinning hair or hair loss

• Difficulty conceiving

While these symptoms can vary considerably from person to person, recognizing the signs and discussing them with your doctor can help you get the appropriate testing and treatment.

How Is PCOS Diagnosed?

Because PCOS can affect women differently, diagnosis usually involves a combination of your medical history, symptoms, blood tests and, in some cases, an ultrasound.

Your doctor may look for:

• Irregular, infrequent or absent menstrual periods

• Signs of elevated androgen levels, such as excess facial or body hair, acne or hair thinning

• Blood tests showing elevated androgen levels, including testosterone

• An ultrasound showing multiple small ovarian follicles, when appropriate

• Blood tests to rule out other conditions that can mimic PCOS, including thyroid disorders

Your doctor may also recommend metabolic testing, such as blood glucose and cholesterol, to evaluate your overall metabolic health and your risk of insulin resistance and Type 2 diabetes.

There isn't one single test that can diagnose PCOS. In adults, diagnosis generally requires at least two of three characteristics: irregular or absent ovulation, clinical or biochemical signs of elevated androgens, and polycystic ovarian morphology. Other conditions that could explain the symptoms must first be excluded.

An OB-GYN or endocrinologist is best equipped to guide you through the diagnostic process and develop a treatment plan tailored to your individual needs.

PCOS is a hormonal disorder that affects how the ovaries function.

What Can You Do If You Have PCOS?

While there is currently no cure for PCOS, managing its symptoms and improving metabolic health can make a meaningful difference.

Start with a few simple steps:

• Have your hormone levels and metabolic health evaluated by your healthcare provider.

• Follow a balanced diet rich in protein, fiber, healthy fats and nutrient-dense whole foods.

• Reduce highly processed foods and added sugars, focusing instead on fresh vegetables, whole grains and quality protein sources.

• Exercise regularly to improve insulin sensitivity, support cardiovascular health and promote emotional well-being.

• Prioritize sleep and stress management, as both can influence hormonal and metabolic health.

Depending on your symptoms and individual needs, your doctor may also recommend medications to help regulate menstrual cycles, address androgen-related symptoms, improve insulin sensitivity or support fertility.

Natural Support for Hormonal Health

Alongside a healthy lifestyle, certain supplements may provide additional support for overall hormonal and metabolic health.

Products such as Semaine Daily contain adaptogenic ingredients and other nutrients that may help support stress resilience and hormone-related symptoms as part of a broader wellness routine.

We're just getting started with this series on PCOS. In our next article, we'll take a closer look at the foods, nutrients and exercise habits that may help support metabolic health and manage PCOS symptoms.

Have you tried lifestyle changes or supplements to support your hormonal health? Share your experience with us—we'd love to hear from you!