Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) affects an estimated 10 to 13 percent of women of reproductive age worldwide, yet many misconceptions and unanswered questions still surround this condition. While it’s often linked to menstrual problems and fertility issues, PCOS is an endocrine disorder influenced by genetics that has much broader impacts, including effects on your metabolism, sleep and mood.
Here are eight surprising facts about living with PCOS to help you better understand this common condition and take charge of your health.
1. PCOS Isn’t Just About Reproduction; It’s a Metabolic Disorder
PCOS affects the way your body handles energy from food and is closely tied to your metabolism. One of its hallmarks is something called insulin resistance, which is when your cells don’t respond well to insulin, causing blood sugar levels to rise.
This can increase risks for conditions like type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, heart disease and stroke. Living with PCOS means taking care of your whole body, not just your ovaries.
2. Not Everyone with PCOS Is Overweight
While weight gain can be common with PCOS, some women have a normal BMI — a group sometimes called “lean PCOS.” This means you can have hormonal imbalances and insulin resistance even without being overweight. Unfortunately, lean PCOS can be missed if weight is the only focus. That’s why thorough examinations by your physician are so important.
3. Your Gut and Hormones Are Closely Connected
Emerging science shows the gut microbiome — the bacteria in your digestive system — plays a big role in hormone balance and inflammation in PCOS. Imbalances in gut bacteria can contribute to insulin resistance and other symptoms.
To support your gut health:
- Eat fiber-rich fruits and vegetables
- Try fermented foods (like yogurt and kimchi)
- Consider taking probiotic supplements
4. Living With PCOS Can Affect Your Mental Health
Living with PCOS can take an emotional toll. Research shows women with PCOS are at higher risk for anxiety, depression and body image struggles.
Physical symptoms, such as acne or unwanted hair, can lower self-esteem, while hormone shifts and inflammation may also affect your mood directly. Caring for your mental health through therapy, securing emotional support and reducing stress is just as important as managing physical symptoms.
5. PCOS Can Start in the Teen Years and Is Often Missed
The first signs of PCOS often show up in teenage years but are easily mistaken for ordinary puberty. If you or your teen notice irregular periods, persistent acne, sudden weight gain or changes in hair growth, don’t dismiss them too quickly. Tracking symptoms and seeing a doctor early can lead to better outcomes and long-term health.
6. Birth Control Can Protect Your Long-Term Health if You Have PCOS
Hormonal birth control is commonly used to help manage PCOS because it helps balance hormones and regulate periods. When periods are irregular or skipped, the lining of the uterus can build up, which may increase the risk of future health problems.
Birth control helps prevent this by keeping the uterine lining healthy and lowering the risk of conditions like endometrial hyperplasia. For many people with PCOS, birth control isn’t just about symptom control — it’s an important way to protect long-term health.
7. Poor Sleep Can Make Living With PCOS Worse
Sleep has a huge impact on hormone health. Women with PCOS are at greater risk for sleep apnea and circadian rhythm disturbances.
Here are some tips for better sleep:
- Keep a consistent bedtime routine
- Make your bedroom cool and dark
- Avoid screens before bed
8. Getting Pregnant with PCOS Is Possible But May Require Extra Steps
PCOS is a leading cause of infertility, but many women can still conceive with the right help, including:
- Lifestyle changes including a healthy diet, regular exercise and stress reduction can support ovulation.
- Medications can be prescribed to encourage ovulation.
- Advanced treatments including assisted reproductive technologies like IVF may be needed.
Consulting a fertility specialist can help you develop a personalized plan that aligns with your family goals.
PCOS is more than a reproductive issue — it’s a complex condition that involves your whole body and mind. Yet knowledge is power. Understanding PCOS is the first step to managing your symptoms and advocating for quality care.
At Stony Brook’s PCOS Center, our interdisciplinary team, which includes endocrinologists, gynecologists, fertility experts, dermatologists, nutritionists and mental health providers, works together to manage symptoms, support fertility and protect long-term health. Learn more about Stony Brook’s PCOS Center or call (631) 444-4686.
