
PCOS is something that changes your hormones. It happens to some women and is more common in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women. PCOS sometimes runs in families so, you are more likely to
get PCOS if your mum, aunties or sisters also have it.
What causes PCOS
Normally your ovary will grow one follicle and release one egg each month. PCOS is when your ovary makes too many follicles and eggs each month.
What you can see, what you can feel
PCOS changes your hormones, making too much insulin (helps balance your blood sugars) and androgens (causes facial hair, baldness and weight gain). Women with PCOS can have different symptoms and these can change over time.
Symptoms can include:
- No periods
- Irregular period (too long or too short a time in between what is normal)
- Changes to where hair is growing (face, stomach and back)
- Hair loss
- Acne or pimples
- Putting on weight (especially around your belly)
- Feeling sad, low or stressed for no reason
- Trouble getting pregnant.