If you have PCOS, you will usually have two or three of the following:

• Polycystic ovaries – this where cysts develop in your ovaries
• Not ovulating regularly – your ovaries will not regularly release eggs
• High levels of male hormones – you will have high levels of androgens in your body

However, it’s important to note that you can have PCOS without having cysts on your ovaries. Also, be reassured that all women have androgens. It’s fluctuating levels which can cause problems.

The cause of PCOS is not fully understood, but genetics may be a factor. PCOS seems to run in families, and can be passed down from either your mother’s or father’s side. The condition is associated with abnormal hormone levels in the body, including high levels of insulin. 

The symptoms tend to be mild at first and you may only have a few or a lot of them. PCOS tends to affect women differently but the symptoms may include:

• Irregular or no periods
• Problems with fertility
• Weight gain
• Oily skin or acne
• Excessive hair growth, typically on the face, chest and abdomen
• Thinning or loss of hair on head
• Patches of dark thick skin in armpit or around groin or neck