Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)

PCOS is a common endocrine disorder in reproductive aged women, characterized by a combination of hyperandrogenism, ovulatory dysfunction and the finding of polycystic ovarian morphology on ultrasound after exclusion of other etiologies.

PCOS is a common endocrine disorder in reproductive aged women, characterized by a combination of hyperandrogenism, ovulatory dysfunction and the finding of polycystic ovarian morphology on ultrasound after exclusion of other etiologies. Diagnosis of PCOS is based on the finding of at least two of these three features, as recommended by the 2023 International Evidence-based Guideline for the Assessment and Management of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, developed by the Endocrine Society and International Partners.

Symptoms may include acne, excessive hair growth, weight gain, thinning scalp hair, and difficulty with fertility. PCOS is also associated with insulin resistance and a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular issues, and endometrial cancer.

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Why It Matters

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormone-related condition that often begins in the teen years or early adulthood. It causes irregular periods, high levels of male hormones (androgens), and sometimes small cysts on the ovaries. PCOS can lead to problems like acne, weight gain, extra facial/body hair, and trouble getting pregnant. Inline content unavailable

Does PCOS go away after menopause?

No—PCOS does not simply disappear after menopause. While periods naturally stop, the hormone imbalances and health risks linked to PCOS often continue later in life. Inline content unavailable

How PCOS Affects You After Menopause

  • Later Menopause: Women with PCOS usually reach menopause 2 to 4 years later than those without PCOS.

  • Hormones: Even after menopause, many women with PCOS still have higher levels of male hormones like testosterone.

  • PCOS increases the risk of:

    • Type 2 diabetes

    • High blood pressure

    • Unhealthy cholesterol levels

    • Heart disease

  • Weight & Metabolism: Women with PCOS often have trouble with weight gain, insulin resistance (when the body doesn't use insulin well), and long-term inflammation—all of which can affect heart and metabolic health after menopause.

  • Menopausal Symptoms: Some symptoms like hot flashes may be less common in women with PCOS, possibly because of ongoing androgen levels. However, vaginal dryness and unwanted hair growth may continue or worsen.

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Why This Matters Long-Term

  • PCOS is a lifelong condition. Even though reproductive symptoms like missed periods go away, other issues—like blood sugar problems, hormone imbalance, and heart risks—can remain.

  • That’s why women with PCOS need ongoing care, even after menopause. This includes regular check-ups, blood sugar monitoring, and support for heart health.

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How Amissa Helps

Amissa offers tools to support lifelong PCOS management—especially as your body changes during menopause:

  • Track Symptoms Over Time: Monitor things like hot flashes, sleep issues, unwanted hair growth, or blood sugar concerns—even after periods have stopped.

  • Personalized Trends: See how lifestyle, supplements, or treatments are impacting your symptoms and long-term health risks.

  • Reminders & Self-Care Tools: Stay consistent with medications, physical activity, and nutrition—especially important for managing insulin resistance and inflammation.

Amissa helps make complex hormone and metabolic conditions easier to understand—and manage—at every stage of life.

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