Unlock The Mystery To PCOS

Jun 30

If you’ve heard the term PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) and felt overwhelmed or confused, you’re not alone. PCOS affects about 1 in 10 women, yet it’s still misunderstood and often under-discussed. Let’s change that—starting here.

What Is PCOS?

PCOS is a condition that affects how your ovaries work. It’s linked to hormonal imbalances, especially involving androgens (male hormones), and it can show up in lots of different ways. Symptoms might include:

Irregular periods
Acne or oily skin
Excess hair growth on the face or body
Thinning hair on the scalp
Fertility struggles
Unexplained weight changes

💡 Important to know:
PCOS often begins in the teenage years or early 20s, but many women don’t get diagnosed until later in life. Symptoms can vary hugely—some have obvious signs, others don’t.

And remember: It’s not your fault. PCOS is influenced by genetics, environment, and how your body handles hormones—not by anything you did wrong.

There’s More Than One Kind of PCOS

This part is so important and not talked about enough: There are actually different types of PCOS. That’s why treatments that work for one woman might not work for another. Knowing your type helps you personalize your care.

Here are the 4 main types:

Insulin-Resistant PCOS (the most common)
➡️ Driven by high insulin levels, often linked with cravings, belly weight gain, and fatigue.
Post-Pill PCOS
➡️ Symptoms show up after coming off hormonal birth control, often temporarily.
Inflammatory PCOS
➡️ Linked to chronic inflammation in the body—can come with digestive issues, skin flares, or joint pain.
Adrenal PCOS
➡️ Caused by stress affecting the adrenal glands. Usually seen in lean women with irregular cycles and stubborn acne.

Knowing your type = knowing where to start with treatment.

How Is PCOS Diagnosed?

PCOS can be tricky to diagnose because its symptoms overlap with other conditions. Typically, it involves:

Medical History: Your cycle, symptoms, and family health history.
Physical Exam: Checking for visible signs like acne or excess hair growth.
Blood Tests: Looking at hormone levels and blood sugar regulation.
Ultrasound: Checking for “cysts” on the ovaries (actually small follicles).

Diagnosis is rarely one appointment—it’s a journey, and you deserve answers.

A Friend’s Story

One of my close friends battled PCOS for years without knowing it. Irregular cycles, fatigue, stubborn weight gain—but no one connected the dots. Without further diagnosis, doctors told her she will never be able to have kids and left her alone with that knowledge. She was in her early 20s then.
Finally, in her mid 30s, she found a doctor who did more tests and diagnosed her type of PCOS. The frustration of why it took so long was real, but getting answers changed everything. It meant finally understanding her body—and taking steps that actually helped.

Managing PCOS: Small Steps, Big Impact

There’s no one-size-fits-all, but small changes can have a powerful impact:

Nutrition: Balance blood sugar with protein, fiber, and healthy fats.
Movement: Pick something you enjoy. Walking, strength training, yoga—it’s all good.
Rest: Prioritize your health by actively scheduling enough time to rest, and make sure to get enough quality sleep.
Self-Compassion: Progress, not perfection. Healing is a process, not a straight line.

Why Talking About PCOS Matters

For too long, women’s health issues have been dismissed or ignored. But your health matters. Raising awareness about PCOS means more women can get diagnosed earlier, get the right help, and stop feeling like they’re facing this alone.

Let’s Support Each Other

Have you or someone you know faced challenges with PCOS? I’d love to hear your story. Sharing helps others feel seen, supported, and empowered to take charge of their health.

You don’t have to figure this out alone — we’re in this together. 💛

Health & Nutrition Coaching