Symptoms of Polycystic Ovary Disease

There are multiple symptoms of polycystic ovary disease. Some women will experience each and every symptom and others may only experience one or two. Polycystic ovary disease has in the past been difficult to diagnose, but doctors are becoming more aware of the symptoms of polycystic ovary disease and are making the proper diagnosis.

Menstruation

• A woman with polycystic ovary disease is going to have problems with menstruation. It may be a lack of periods, missed periods, periods that last too long and lack of ovulation.

Hormones

• One of the most significant signs of polycystic ovary disease is an increase in hormone levels. This often includes estrogen, androgen and even testosterone. This must be checked through a blood test.

Cysts

• Cysts are part of a regular menstrual cycle, but these cysts disappear. A woman with polycystic ovary disease will hold onto these cysts and they have often been described as looking like a string of pearls. These may be seen using an ultrasound.

Excess Hair Growth

• Due to an increase in the "male" hormones in the body, a woman with polycystic ovary disease may experience hair growth on her face or increased hair growth or darker hair on other parts of her body such as her arms or back.

Acne

• Another side effect of the increased hormone levels is acne. Women with polycystic ovary disease may notice an increase in pimples or acne on their faces, arms and back.

Obesity

• Obesity, especially carrying extra weight in the stomach area is a symptom of polycystic ovary disease. It may be a little extra weight or enough to make a woman significantly obese.