In this episode of the Progress Your Health Podcast, we are going to talk about PCOS. I know our last podcast was, PCOS, Questions to Ask your Doctor. We are still going strong on our PCOS information. But we are going to do things a little different than we have. We are going to do a five-part podcast series about PCOS.  

What PCOS Looks Like: What is it? (this podcast)
How PCOS Can Be Detected: Testing and Diagnosis for PCOS
Which Type of PCOS Am I?: Classic
Which Type of PCOS Am I?: Common
Which Type of PCOS Am I?: Concealed

PCOS stands for Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome. It is not a disease but considered a syndrome. From the name, polycystic ovarian syndrome, it is easy to assume there are multiple cysts on the ovaries. But in fact, many women with PCOS do not have multiple cysts or any ovarian cysts. As a general statement, in PCOS, there are hormonal imbalances that can cause unwanted symptoms and conditions. That is why we consider it more of a spectrum as some women can have nearly most of the criteria of PCOS and other just a few symptoms.  
What are the Hormonal Imbalances present in PCOS?

In PCOS, one of the hallmarks are elevated levels of androgens: testosterone and DHEA. A lot of time these can range from high normal to over the reference lab values. 
DHEA: comes from the adrenal glands
Testosterone is from conversion from DHEA, ovaries and other peripheral tissues
Progesterone levels from the ovaries are low to none
Thyroid function can be low
Elevated insulin
Cortisol diurnal release is degraded. 

Common PCOS Symptoms:
Multiple Ovarian Cysts:

Just like the name states: Polycystic ovarian syndrome, there can be multiple cysts on the ovaries.  
It is normal and common to get small follicular cysts during our cycle.  
But in PCOS there can be actual cysts that stay on the ovaries almost indefinitely.
While as the name states, polycystic. Many women with PCOS do not have cysts on their ovaries.

Period issues:

Irregular or lack of a period.
In PCOS, there can be missed periods. Some women might miss a period or two in a year. And others can miss their period for up to six months or more. But of course, the goal is to balance the hormones, so the cycle is regulated and not painful or heavy.

Infertility:

Some women that have PCOS can have reduced ovula