PCOS Awareness: Shining a Light on an Invisible Struggle

September is PCOS Awareness Month. I was lucky enough to be diagnosed young, but it has impacted my life since I was a teenager. Struggling with fertility issues, miscarriages, unexplained weight gain, hair loss, hair growth in strange places, acne, voice changes, anxiety, depression, and almost crippling pain is my normal. Still, I have been blessed with 2 beautiful children and a wonderful life that I love.

Every September, PCOS Awareness Month gives us the opportunity to highlight a condition that affects millions of women and people with ovaries worldwide: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). Despite being one of the most common hormonal disorders, PCOS often goes undiagnosed, misunderstood, and overlooked.

It’s time to change that.

What Is PCOS?

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal imbalance that can affect how the ovaries work. Symptoms vary from person to person, but some of the most common include:

• Irregular or missed periods

• Cysts on the ovaries

• Weight gain or difficulty losing weight

• Excess hair growth (hirsutism)

• Thinning hair or hair loss on the scalp

• Skin concerns such as acne or darkened patches

• Fertility struggles

PCOS isn’t just about reproductive health—it’s also linked to insulin resistance, metabolic issues, and a higher risk of conditions like type 2 diabetes and heart disease.

Why Awareness Matters

Too often, those living with PCOS are dismissed when they first bring up their symptoms. They may be told their struggles are “normal” or that they simply need to change their lifestyle. Raising awareness helps break down these barriers by:

• Encouraging early diagnosis. The sooner PCOS is identified, the sooner someone can find treatment and support. Learn more from the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development.

• Reducing stigma. Talking openly about PCOS helps normalize the conversation around women’s health and fertility.

• Fostering support communities. No one should feel alone in their journey with PCOS. Resources like PCOS Challenge and the PCOS Awareness Association provide valuable connections.

Living With PCOS

While there is no cure for PCOS, there are ways to manage symptoms. Treatments may include lifestyle changes, medication, and ongoing care from healthcare professionals. Just as importantly, emotional support, from family, friends, or online communities, can make a world of difference.

For practical tips, check out this guide from the Office on Women’s Health.

How You Can Help

• Educate yourself. Learn the facts about PCOS and share them with others through PCOS Challenge and PCOS Awareness Association.

• Wear teal. Teal is the official color of PCOS awareness—wear it proudly this month to show support.

• Support organizations. Donate or get involved with groups like PCOS Challenge or PCOS Awareness Association.

• Listen and uplift. If someone you know shares their PCOS journey, offer compassion and encouragement.

I am wearing "Teal We Meet Again" as my tribute mani to my soul cysters.

PCOS is more than a diagnosis, it’s a lifelong journey of resilience. By raising awareness, we can break down stigma, amplify voices, and ensure that every person living with PCOS feels seen, heard, and supported.

This month, let’s shine a light on PCOS and stand together in awareness, advocacy, and hope.