Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) affects between 5 and 10% of girls and women of reproductive age. Contrary to popular belief, having PCOS does not always mean that there are cysts on your ovaries. Instead, PCOS is diagnosed by meeting the following conditions: an increased amount of body hair distributed in masculine areas and/or elevated levels of “male” hormones in the body such as testosterone, and irregular menstruation or the absence of menstruation [1].
PCOS is still largely underdiagnosed by medical professionals, and misunderstood by the public. Side effects of PCOS can be extremely distressing for girls and women as many carry negative stereotypes and connotations. For this article three prevalent features of PCOS will be discussed:
- Hirsutism
- Infertility
- Weight gain
Hirsutism
PCOS is often characterised by abnormal hair growth, otherwise known as hirsutism, due to excessive levels of androgens (often called “male” hormones despite being present in varying amounts in everyone) in the body. Hirsutism can cause psychological and emotional distress due to traditional gender stereotypes. Women are often expected to have minimal bodily hair, while men are seen as more masculine if they do not shave their body hair. While this unfair beauty standard is harmful and out-dated, it puts real stress on women and girls suffering from hirsutism.
Hirsutism is associated with a range of other conditions such as Cushing syndrome and can be a side effect of certain medications. It affects up to 1 in 10 women and treatment options are available [2, 3,]. Social media pages such as hirsute and cute aim to remove the stigma from hirsutism and change beauty norms.
Infertility
70% – 80% of women with PCOS experience infertility. This can be devastating news for some and can lead to depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and other negative consequences [4]. It can complicate relationships with current and future partners. However, this is not the end of the story. There are lifestyle changes, medications, and other treatment options available for women with PCOS to increase their chance of pregnancy and reduce the possibility of miscarriage [3].
Weight Gain
PCOS is more common in women who are overweight, but whether PCOS leads to weight gain or vice versa is uncertain [5]. The presence of excessive body fat is extremely complicated and there is no one cause or solution. While lifestyle changes can often help, many cases are genetic. Stigma, discrimination and blame are often attached to those who are overweight and obese. This can come from the public and society, but self-stigma is also an issue. This can result in conditions such as anxiety, depression and eating disorders [6]. If you are struggling with your weight, it is important that you look after both your physical and mental health and seek professional help where appropriate.
The side effects of PCOS can be extremely difficult. Please know that you are not alone. If any of the issues mentioned above concern you, please consult with your doctor about the treatment and support options available to you.
SPIOMET4HEALTH is conducting a clinical trial aiming to tackle the root of the problem causing these side effects. Find more information about the trial and how to join it here: The clinical trial – SPIOMET4HEALTH
Article by Aoibhinn Collery – Research and Communications Officer (EIWH)
References
- Ibáñez, L. and F. de Zegher, Polycystic ovary syndrome in adolescent girls. Pediatr Obes, 2020. 15(2): p. e12586.
- Mihailidis, J., et al., Endocrine evaluation of hirsutism. Int J Womens Dermatol, 2017. 3(1 Suppl): p. S6-s10.
- NHS. Treatment – Polycystic ovary syndrome. 2022 14 December 2022]; Available from: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/polycystic-ovary-syndrome-pcos/treatment/.
- WHO. Infertility. 2020 14 December 2022]; Available from: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/infertility.
- Sam, S., Obesity and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. Obesity Management, 2007. 3(2): p. 69-73.
- Puhl, R.M. and C.A. Heuer, Obesity Stigma: Important Considerations for Public Health. American Journal of Public Health, 2010. 100(6): p. 1019-1028.