Health Tools

Health Tools help you make wise health decisions or take action to improve your health.

	Actionsets are designed to help people take an active role in managing a health condition.
	Fitness: Adding More Activity to Your Life
	Healthy Eating: Getting Support When Changing Your Eating Habits
	Healthy Eating: Recognizing Your Hunger Signals

Cause

The cause of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is not fully understood, but genetics may be a factor.

PCOS problems are caused by hormone changes. One hormone change triggers another, which changes another.

Symptoms

Symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) tend to start gradually. Hormone changes that lead to PCOS often start in the early teens, after the first menstrual period. Symptoms may be especially noticeable after a weight gain.

Symptoms may include:

• Menstrual problems. These can include few or no menstrual periods or heavy, irregular bleeding.
• Hair loss from the scalp and hair growth (hirsutism) on the face, chest, back, stomach, thumbs, or toes.
• Acne and oily skin
• Fertility problems, such as not releasing an egg (not ovulating) or repeat miscarriages.
• Insulin resistance and too much insulin (hyperinsulinemia), which can cause things like upper body obesity and skin tags.
• Depression or mood swings. For more information, see the topic Depression or Depression in Children and Teens.
• Breathing problems while sleeping (obstructive sleep apnea). This is linked to both obesity and insulin resistance.