Brain Mindmap

PCOS IS MORE THAN PERIODS

DEPRESSION & ANXIETY

Women with PCOS are three times more likely to struggle with anxiety and depression than people without PCOS. Doctors and researchers aren't exactly sure why, but some point to the physical manifestations of PCOS that can lead to stress and self-esteem issues.

CYSTIC ACNE

Because of their hormonal imbalance, women with PCOS may struggle with cystic acne. This type of acne usually flares up on the lower third of the face and gets worse during periods.

FATIGUE

Fatigue is not directly caused by PCOS. However, many other PCOS symptoms like obesity, hormonal imbalance and heavy periods have significant links to fatigue.

BODY PAINS

Women with PCOS may experience regular episodes of body pain, particularly in the leg, back and pelvic region.

WEIGHT CHANGES

Because of higher amounts of androgens (male sex hormones), women with PCOS experience increased appetites and typically carry this weight in their abdomens. Insulin resistance, which they experience, also causes difficulties in converting sugars and starches into energy.

HIRSUTISM

Because of increased levels of androgens (male sex hormones), women with PCOS may grow excess hair above the lip, on the chin, abdomen and back.

SLEEP DISTURBANCES

Women with PCOS may experience sleep apnea (low airflow while asleep) or insomnia (struggle to fall or stay asleep). They might also deal with excessive daytime sleepiness.

HAIR LOSS

Androgenic alopecia is common in people with PCOS. In addition to female-patterned hair loss. One may experience thinning hair as well as receding hairlines.

INFERTILITY

PCOS is the leading cause of infertility in women. Many people with the disorder experience irregular periods, which come with irregular ovulation (release of egg from the ovary), which can make it difficult to conceive.

STRECH MARKS

Stretch marks during PCOS usually come about due to weight changes. They usually appear around the abdomen, lower back, buttocks and behind the legs.