PCOS Symptoms: How to Recognise the Early Warning Signs

13 Oct 2025

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) affects around one in ten women of reproductive age in the UK, yet many women live with it for years before receiving a diagnosis. Because symptoms can vary widely — and often overlap with other conditions — it’s easy to miss the early warning signs.

Here’s what every woman should know about PCOS, its symptoms, and when to seek medical advice.

What is PCOS?

PCOS is a hormonal imbalance that affects how the ovaries work. In women with PCOS, the ovaries may produce higher-than-normal levels of androgens (male hormones), which can disrupt ovulation and cause small fluid-filled sacs (cysts) to form on the ovaries.

The exact cause isn’t fully understood, but genetics, insulin resistance, and lifestyle factors all play a role.

Early Symptoms to Watch for

The symptoms of PCOS can develop gradually, often starting in the late teens or early twenties. Common signs include:

• Irregular or absent periods – One of the most common symptoms.
• Excess hair growth (hirsutism) – On the face, chest, or abdomen.
• Acne and oily skin – Caused by higher androgen levels.
• Weight gain or difficulty losing weight – Particularly around the abdomen.
• Thinning hair on the scalp – Known as female-pattern hair loss.
• Fertility problems – Due to irregular ovulation.

Some women also experience mood changes, fatigue, or low self-esteem due to the physical and hormonal effects of PCOS.

If you notice several of these symptoms, a PCOS Hormone Test can help confirm whether hormonal imbalance is the cause.

How PCOS is Diagnosed

There’s no single test for PCOS, so diagnosis usually involves a combination of:

• Hormone blood tests – To check androgen, LH, and FSH levels.
• Ultrasound scan – To look for ovarian cysts and assess ovulation.
• Medical history and symptoms – Your doctor will review period patterns and other changes.

At South Kensington Medical & Dental, our [Gynaecology Consultations – placeholder link] and [Hormone Profiles – placeholder link] provide a full evaluation for PCOS and related conditions.

Why Early Diagnosis Matters

Recognising PCOS early helps prevent long-term complications such as:

• Infertility – Caused by irregular ovulation.
• Type 2 diabetes – Linked to insulin resistance.
• High cholesterol and heart disease – Due to metabolic changes.
• Endometrial cancer – From prolonged irregular cycles without ovulation.

Addressing PCOS early allows for better hormonal control, improved fertility outcomes, and reduced future health risks.

Managing PCOS

While there’s no cure, PCOS can be effectively managed with lifestyle changes and medical treatment.

Lifestyle management:

• Maintain a balanced diet with whole grains, lean protein, and reduced sugar.
• Aim for regular exercise to improve insulin sensitivity.
• Manage stress, which can worsen hormonal imbalance.

Medical options:

• Hormonal contraception to regulate cycles and reduce acne or excess hair.
• Fertility medications if pregnancy is desired.
• Insulin-sensitising medications to support metabolic health.

Your GP or gynaecologist can guide you through tailored PCOS Treatment suited to your goals and symptoms.

When to Seek Medical Advice

See a doctor if you:

• Have irregular periods for several months
• Struggle with acne or unwanted facial hair
• Experience difficulty conceiving
• Notice unexplained weight changes

Even if you’re not planning a pregnancy, managing PCOS is important for your long-term health and well-being.

Final Thoughts

PCOS is common and treatable, but many women go undiagnosed because symptoms can be subtle or mistaken for lifestyle issues. Understanding the early signs and getting tested can make a real difference.