What is PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) Really?
PCOS, or Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, is often misunderstood, misdiagnosed, and minimized. It’s not just a period problem or a fertility issue — it’s a complex, chronic condition that affects multiple systems in the body, including your metabolism, hormones, nervous system, and mental health.
You’ve probably heard that PCOS is a “hormonal imbalance” or that it means you “have cysts on your ovaries.” But if you’ve been diagnosed with PCOS, or suspect you have it, you know that those descriptions barely scratch the surface.
PCOS is a hormonal and metabolic syndrome that affects how the ovaries function. The name itself is misleading. Many people with PCOS don’t have actual cysts on their ovaries, and the presence of what is accurately known as follicles alone doesn't confirm PCOS. There is not one single test to diagnose it, and its causes aren’t fully understood. But what we do know is that PCOS is linked to challenges with ovulation and menstrual cycles, excess androgens (like testosterone), and metabolic disturbances such as insulin resistance.
Common Symptoms
People with PCOS can experience a wide range of symptoms, including:
Irregular or missed periods
Acne (especially jawline/chin) + oily skin
Excess hair growth on the face and body
Hair loss
Weight changes or difficulty losing weight
Fatigue, brain fog, or mood changes
What is key is that every case is different. Some have textbook symptoms, while others have “normal” cycles but still meet other criteria. This diversity in symptoms is a part of the current issue of overdiagnosing and underdiagnosing PCOS.
Why It’s Often Missed
PCOS is one of the most common endocrine conditions, yet it’s underdiagnosed or misdiagnosed. Why?
Symptoms are dismissed or normalized (e.g., “acne is normal,” “your cycles will regulate with time”, “just lose weight”)
Unless fertility is a focus, people are often given limited options and testing
PCOS will look different and unique depending on the person
Lack of comprehensive testing and assessments
This is why it is essential to look deeper. Not only should we be properly assessing PCOS through labs and imaging, but we need to be ruling out other conditions that can mimic symptoms of PCOS. Without comprehensive assessments and investigations, we may be treating the wrong condition entirely…and no one wants that.
A Final Word
You deserve more support and clarity on what is actually causing your symptoms. As an Naturopathic Doctor with PCOS, I have been able to experience first hand how PCOS symptoms and labs can shift entirely through a more holistic and foundational approach. Naturopathic medicine has many tools that can support you along your PCOS journey. You can read more about our approach to PCOS here, and reach out to the clinic if you have any questions!
Ready to make a change?
If you're seeking a better understanding of your condition and are ready for a comprehensive and personalized approach to managing your PCOS, I invite you to book a free complimentary call with me here.
Be well,
Dr. Jessica Nazareth, ND