Irregular periods. Acne that came out of nowhere. Weight that won’t move no matter what you do. If you have PCOS, or think you might, you’ve probably been told to lose weight or go on birth control, and not much else.
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common hormonal conditions in women, and it affects far more than your cycle. It’s closely tied to blood sugar, metabolism, and long-term health. At Functionally You, I look at all of it together, so we can find what’s actually driving your symptoms and build a plan that fits your life.
PCOS
PCOS is a hormonal condition that usually develops during the reproductive years. It can affect ovulation, menstrual cycles, and the balance of hormones in your body.
Many women with PCOS have higher levels of androgens, hormones that both men and women make. Higher androgens can lead to acne, unwanted facial or body hair, and thinning hair on the scalp.
Despite the name, PCOS doesn’t always involve ovarian cysts. Symptoms and hormone patterns vary widely from woman to woman.
What Is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome?
Kristen Finissi | MSN, APRN, FNP-C
What Are the Common Symptoms of PCOS?
PCOS can affect several areas of health. Some women experience noticeable menstrual changes, while others first recognize symptoms related to their skin or metabolism.
Common symptoms include:
Irregular, infrequent, or missed menstrual periods
Acne or persistent oily skin
Unwanted facial or body hair growth
Thinning hair on the scalp
Weight gain or difficulty managing weight
Insulin resistance and elevated blood sugar
Difficulty becoming pregnant due to irregular ovulation
Not every woman with PCOS experiences the same symptoms. Some may have relatively mild concerns, while others experience changes that affect daily life.
Insulin helps move sugar from your blood into your cells for energy. With insulin resistance, your cells stop responding to it well, so your body makes more insulin to compensate.
High insulin can signal the ovaries to make more androgens, which can disrupt ovulation and contribute to acne, hair growth, and weight gain. Insulin resistance is common in PCOS, including in women who aren’t overweight, and over time it raises the risk of prediabetes and type 2 diabetes.
That’s why I check insulin, not just glucose. Blood sugar can look normal for years while insulin is already working overtime.
How Does Insulin Resistance Affect PCOS?
How Is PCOS Diagnosed?
There is no single test that confirms PCOS. Diagnosis generally involves reviewing symptoms, menstrual history, physical findings, and appropriate laboratory results.
Healthcare providers commonly evaluate three characteristics:
Irregular or absent ovulation
Clinical or laboratory evidence of elevated androgens
Polycystic ovarian appearance on ultrasound
In adults, PCOS may be diagnosed when at least two of these characteristics are present, after other possible causes have been excluded. Additional testing may help rule out thyroid disorders, elevated prolactin, and other hormonal conditions that can produce similar symptoms.
How Can PCOS Be Managed?
Although there is currently no cure for PCOS, several approaches can help manage symptoms and reduce long-term health risks.
Nutrition and Blood Sugar Support
Balanced meals that include protein, fiber, and nutrient-rich carbohydrates can support metabolic health. For women with insulin resistance, individualized nutrition strategies may help improve blood sugar regulation.
Physical Activity
Regular physical activity can improve insulin sensitivity and support cardiovascular health. A combination of resistance training and aerobic activity may be beneficial. The right routine depends on your health, preferences, and physical abilities.
Hormonal and Reproductive Health
Treatment options depend on your symptoms and reproductive goals. Some women may benefit from medications that regulate menstrual cycles or address elevated androgen levels. Others may need support with ovulation or fertility.
Ongoing Health Monitoring
PCOS is associated with increased risks of type 2 diabetes, abnormal cholesterol levels, and other metabolic concerns. Regular follow-up helps identify changes and guide appropriate care.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Yes. PCOS affects women across different body sizes. Insulin resistance and elevated androgen levels can occur even when a woman is within a healthy weight range. Body weight alone cannot determine whether someone has PCOS.
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No. PCOS can make pregnancy more difficult because irregular ovulation affects fertility. However, many women with PCOS conceive naturally or with appropriate medical support.
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Lifestyle changes may improve insulin sensitivity, menstrual regularity, and metabolic health. Nutrition and physical activity are important parts of PCOS management, although some women also need medication or additional care.
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No. Baseline laboratory testing is included in the initial consultation process. After purchasing your session, you receive instructions for completing your intake forms and lab work before your consultation.
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Yes. I evaluate metabolic and hormonal factors that may contribute to weight concerns, including insulin resistance. My recommendations are personalized based on your medical history, laboratory findings, and health goals.
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Yes, everything is done by telehealth, and I work with women nationwide. In Arizona, Colorado, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Mexico, Ohio, Oregon, Utah, and Washington, I provide full clinical care as your nurse practitioner, including prescriptions when appropriate. In all other states, I offer health coaching and wellness support, which includes lab testing and education but not diagnosis, treatment, or prescriptions.
Take the Next Step ?
If you've been told you're fine and you still don't recognize how you feel, the next step is a conversation.
Book a complimentary 15-minute consult. I'll ask what's been happening, what you've already tried, and tell you honestly whether I think I can help.