Yes, you can still have PCOS without cysts! Here's why ...

When most women think of PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome), they understandably associate it with cysts on the ovaries and weight gain. However, PCOS can look different for each woman, and it’s certainly possible to have the condition even if you don’t have cysts or struggle with your weight. In fact, within the last year I have seen a significant increase in the number of women seeking my help who are in this exact situation. These women all had no cysts present and typically, they didn't struggle with weight. Instead, most of these women have excess hair growth, acne, mood swings and painful periods.

So, what causes this type of PCOS?

Androgens. Androgens are 'male' hormones that are produced in both men and women, however women with PCOS often have an overproduction of these hormones. This imbalance can cause a range of symptoms, even in the absence of cysts or weight concerns. This type of PCOS if often referred to as Androgen-dominant PCOS.

What causes high androgen levels?

If you have PCOS, the ovaries and adrenal glands can produce excess androgens, leading to a significant hormonal imbalance. High androgen levels are a key feature of PCOS, and they can disrupt the normal functioning of the ovaries, causing menstrual irregularities, heavy, painful periods, acne, excess hair growth and mood swings. Androgen-dominant PCOS is primarily driven by high androgen levels as opposed to ovarian dysfunction, therefore cysts aren't always present, making it essential to understand that PCOS is about more than just the physical appearance of the ovaries.

Can you have PCOS without any weight gain?

Absolutely! While weight gain is a common symptom due to insulin resistance, many women with PCOS have a healthy body weight or may even experience weight loss. As Androgen-dominant PCOS is caused by high androgen levels rather than insulin resistance, I commonly see women with this type of PCOS who do not struggle with their weight. Weight can still be an underlying issue for women with this type of PCOS, however the primary driver of their symptoms is the hormonal imbalance caused by high androgen levels.

So, how do I manage high androgen levels for PCOS?

Does all of the above sound familiar? The good news is that there are lots of things you can do to help lower your androgen levels! Through a combination of lifestyle changes and nutritional support, you can help to re-balance your hormones, lower your androgen levels and start to see an improvement in your symptoms. Here are some ways to balance hormones naturally:

1. Anti-Inflammatory Diet: The most important part of an anti-inflammatory diet is to avoid processed foods and foods high in sugars. That includes your take aways, fast foods, sweets, chocolates and importantly most fizzy drinks. Instead, opt for a fresh diet based around fruit, vegetables, whole grains and good quality meat and fish. Try to incorporate omega-3 rich foods like fatty fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts to reduce inflammation. Also ditch any vegetable oils and instead make sure you are only cooking with extra virgin olive oil or coconut oil.
   

2. Support Blood Sugar Balance: Even without weight gain, insulin resistance can still play a role in PCOS and balancing blood sugars can help to balanced androgen levels. A diet rich in whole grains, lean proteins, and vegetables can really help to stabilise blood sugar and reduce androgen production. Try to avoid sugary drinks or sugary snacks as these quickly destablise blood sugars.
   

3. Herbal Support: Certain herbs, such as spearmint tea, have shown promise in helping reduce excess hair growth associated with high androgen levels. Many women find significant improvement in their symptoms when taking the supplement myo-inositol *.

   
   

4. Exercise Regularly: Regular physical activity helps to improve hormonal balance and reduce inflammation. This doesn't need to be an intense gym session or a 10k run - it just means keep active. For you that may mean taking the stairs, walking to work or simply dancing around the house!

So there you have it. While yes, PCOS is typically associated with ovarian cysts and weight struggles, it is possible to still have PCOS without these symptoms - especially if you are struggling with acne, excess hair growth, mood swings and irregular, painful periods. PCOS is an area I specialise in and I have experience working with many women with PCOS to help them make positive, sustainable lifestyle and nutritional changes in order to manage their symptoms and help them to live the symptom-free life they deserve!

*You are strongly advised to discuss any new supplementation with a healthcare professional before starting a new supplement. This post serves the purpose of offering nutritional advice only. Any supplementation you may choose to take is your responsibility. If you are struggling with any health conditions, you are recommended to seek help from a healthcare professional.