September is PCOS Awareness Month, a time to shed light on Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) — a condition that affects millions of women but doesn’t always get the attention it deserves.

Here at Asele, we believe in making women’s health a priority, so we’re diving into what PCOS is, how it shows up, and ways to manage it. Most importantly, we want you to know you’re not alone.

So, What Exactly is PCOS?

PCOS is a hormonal disorder that messes with your reproductive system. It’s one of the top causes of infertility, but it’s often misunderstood or not talked about enough. PCOS happens when there’s a hormone imbalance, leading to a range of symptoms that affect not just your body but also your emotional well-being.

Learn more about PCOS from the Office on Women’s Health

What Are the Symptoms?

PCOS shows up differently for each person, but here are some common signs:

Irregular periods can result in cycles that are too far apart, too close together, or last too long. You can read more about tracking irregular periods on Asele.
High androgen levels can cause symptoms like excess facial hair, acne, or hair thinning.
Ovarian cysts, which are small fluid-filled sacs, may be visible through an ultrasound.
Weight gain is often linked to insulin resistance, particularly around the abdomen. Learn more about managing weight while dealing with PCOS.
Fatigue can make you feel tired and drained for no clear reason.
Fertility issues may arise because of irregular ovulation, making it harder to conceive. Discover more about fertility and reproductive health with Asele’s resources.

Want more details? Check out this article from Mayo Clinic

PCOS and Mental Health

Let’s not forget how PCOS can affect your mind, too. Struggling with symptoms like weight gain or acne can take a toll on your self-esteem. Anxiety and depression are also common, so don’t be afraid to seek support — taking care of your emotional health is just as important as managing physical symptoms. Be on the look out for our mental health and menstrual health guide for more information.

Here’s a great resource on mental health and PCOS from the PCOS Awareness Association

Managing PCOS — What Can You Do?

There may not be a cure for PCOS, but there are ways to manage it. Here are some tips:

Diet and exercise can help with weight management and insulin resistance when you stick to a balanced diet and stay active. We have more details in our healthy lifestyle tips for women with PCOS.

Medical options can be explored with your doctor to help regulate your cycle, reduce symptoms like hair growth, or improve fertility.
Stress management is crucial, and techniques like yoga, meditation, or simply taking time for yourself can go a long way in keeping stress in check. Learn how stress impacts menstrual health and find ways to manage it.
Track your cycle using apps like Asele to monitor your menstrual health and identify patterns that help manage PCOS symptoms better. Read our full guide on how to track your menstrual health effectively.

Healthline has more tips on how to manage PCOS

Finding Support

Living with PCOS can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Asele offers a space for women to share their stories, learn from each other, and support one another. Sometimes, knowing that someone else understands what you’re going through can make all the difference. Join our community and discover stories from women like you.

How You Can Get Involved This PCOS Awareness Month

There are lots of ways to get involved and make a difference this month:

Spread the word by sharing information about PCOS with your friends and family to raise awareness and encourage understanding.
Join a support group where you can connect with others who have PCOS and share experiences and tips for managing it.
Advocate for research by supporting organizations that are pushing for more PCOS research and better treatments.

PCOS Challenge offers a list of support groups you can join

Wrapping It Up

PCOS may affect millions of women, but with the right support and lifestyle adjustments, it’s possible to live a healthy and fulfilling life.

At Asele, we’re here to help you better understand your body and give you the tools you need to take control of your health. Remember, you’re not alone — this PCOS Awareness Month, let’s work together to spread the word, find support, and take care of ourselves. Sign up for access to the Asele app today!

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