PCOS is a problem with hormones that affects women during their childbearing years Many women have PCOS but don’t know it. In one study, up to 70 percent of women with PCOS hadn’t been diagnosed. It is a “syndrome,” or group of symptoms that affects the ovaries and ovulation. Its three main features are: 1. cysts in the ovaries (seen on ultrasound) 2. high levels of male hormones (hyperandrogenism) 3. irregular or skipped periods (oligo- and/or anovulation) Some women start seeing symptoms around the time of their first period. While others may only discover they have PCOS after they’ve gained a lot of weight or had trouble getting pregnant. If you have any of the symptoms or think you may have PCOS, make an appointment with your healthcare provider. DISCLAIMER: Statements reflect my own personal opinions, not those of my employer, past or present, or any other organization with which I may be affiliated.⁣ . . . . . #chronicillness #pcod #pcos #womenshealth #irregularperiods