What Are The First Signs of Pcos, Causes & Treatment

Pcos or Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is a condition that is caused by cysts in ovaries. Due to inconsistent ovulation and egg release, it produces irregular menstrual cycles. High quantities of male hormones are also released by the illness, which could lead to an overabundance of facial or body hair. Since it can become very serious, recognising it in the early stages is important. In this write-up, we will discuss what are the first signs of pcos, causes and treatment. 

What Are The First Signs of Pcos?

1. Irregular Periods

One of the most common early signs of PCOS is irregular menstrual cycles. This includes very long cycles (35 days or more), very short cycles (less than 21 days), heavy periods, missed periods, and unpredictable periods. These irregularities occur because excess male hormones (androgens) disrupt the normal menstrual cycle. 

2. Excess Facial and Body Hair Growth

If you are wondering what are the first signs of pcos, many women with PCOS grow excess facial and body hair, especially on the upper lip, chin, chest, stomach and back. This male-pattern hair growth is called hirsutism and stems from higher-than-normal male hormones. You may first notice more dark, coarse hair growing on your face, chest, back and around the nipples. 

3. Scalp Hair Loss

While hirsutism causes growth in some areas, scalp hair loss or thinning is also common with PCOS. Having chronically high testosterone levels can cause the hair follicles on your head to shrink, making hair thin and fall out more easily. Noticeable widening of the part in your hair, a receding hairline, or overall reduced hair volume could indicate PCOS.

4. Acne Breakouts

Many adolescents have acne breakouts, but persistent acne and pimples in adulthood can be a sign of PCOS. The excess androgens overstimulate oil glands and clog pores, leading to more severe acne, especially along the chin, jawline and neck. These breakouts are typically deep, painful cysts, not just surface whiteheads and blackheads.

5. Sudden Weight Gain 

Gaining weight suddenly and struggling to lose weight, especially around the stomach, back and thighs, is another thing that you should not ignore if you are looking for what are the first signs of pcos. Insulin resistance and related excess insulin can disrupt appetite and metabolism, causing weight gain.

6. Skin Discoloration

Darkening of skin, especially in body folds and creases like the neck, groin, underarms and breasts, can occur with PCOS. This discoloration is caused by high insulin levels. You may also notice skin tags in these regions —another related skin change. These skin issues are among the early visible symptoms of insulin resistance.

7. Mood Changes

Women with PCOS commonly experience anxiety, depression, mood swings and other emotional effects. High testosterone and hormonal fluctuations play a role, as can the challenges of living with PCOS symptoms. New onset of mood disorders, especially with the other symptoms, may indicate PCOS.

8. Difficulty Conceiving 

If you’ve been trying to conceive for 6 months or more without success, PCOS could be a reason. According to research, pcos is responsible for female infertility. Infrequent, irregular or absent ovulation prevents pregnancy. Tracking ovulation with kits can help determine if you’re ovulating normally.

Causes of Pcos 

Now that you know what are the first signs of pcos, let’s have a look at the main causes of it:  

• Genetics: PCOS often runs in families, indicating a genetic component. Certain gene variants affect insulin and androgen metabolism, predisposing women to developing PCOS.   

• Insulin Resistance: Insulin resistance, where cells fail to respond normally to insulin, contributes significantly to PCOS. The pancreas then overproduces insulin to compensate, resulting in chronically high blood insulin levels.

• Inflammation: Chronic low-grade inflammation is common in PCOS. Inflammation stresses the body and can increase production of androgens and disturb metabolism. Obesity also leads to more inflammation. 

• Hormonal Imbalances: Abnormal levels of reproductive hormones, like elevated testosterone and anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), are central to PCOS. High androgens and AMH impact ovulation, fertility and menstrual cycles. 

• Obesity: Excess weight and body fat worsens all aspects of PCOS. Obesity both exacerbates and is a consequence of the PCOS metabolic dysfunctions. The extra fat cells increase inflammation and testosterone levels further. Losing weight often improves PCOS symptoms.

Treatment of Pcos

Besides knowing what are the first signs of pcos and the causes, it is also important to be aware of the treatment options. 

1. Lifestyle Changes

Losing weight through diet and exercise can significantly improve PCOS, especially insulin resistance. A nutrition plan high in whole foods, vegetables, lean protein and healthy fats helps manage weight. Regular exercise also aids weight loss and lowers testosterone levels. 

2. Insulin-Sensitising Medications

Medications like metformin that reduce insulin resistance are commonly prescribed. By improving the body’s use of insulin, they can lower testosterone levels, restore ovulation, and reduce the risk of diabetes. 

3. Hormonal Birth Control

Birth control pills and other hormonal contraceptives can regulate menstrual cycles and suppress androgen production. They provide symptom relief and reduce the uterine cancer risk. New oral contraceptives specifically formulated for PCOS are now available.

4. Fertility Medications 

Ovulation-stimulating medications like clomiphene and FSH injections can be used short-term to induce ovulation for women trying to conceive. Ovulation predictors can pinpoint the optimal fertility window.

5. Anti-Androgens

Medications like spironolactone block androgen receptors and reduce PCOS symptoms related to high testosterone like excess hair growth. Topical anti-androgens are another option.

6. Supplements

Supplements like inositol, berberine, omega-3s and zinc have shown benefits for hormonal balance, insulin resistance, inflammation and fertility in PCOS patients.

7. Surgery

Laparoscopic ovarian drilling is sometimes done to stimulate ovulation. Excess facial and body hair can be removed through laser hair removal or electrolysis.

8. Stress Management  

Relaxation therapies, yoga, acupuncture and counselling help women cope with the emotional aspects of PCOS. Protecting mental health is key.

Overview

This shall clear your doubts on what are the first signs of pcos. Seeking treatment early for PCOS is crucial because it can help prevent long-term complications like diabetes, heart disease, and uterine cancer. Early management also improves symptoms like infertility, while addressing associated mental health impacts. Starting treatment as soon as PCOS is diagnosed provides the best chance to regulate hormones.