Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder among women of reproductive age, which can affect a woman's health and fertility. It is characterized by a set of symptoms that can vary significantly from one individual to another, making it sometimes challenging to diagnose. Here are some of the key symptoms associated with PCOS:

1. Irregular Menstrual Cycles

One of the most common signs of PCOS is irregular menstrual periods. This may manifest as periods that are infrequent, irregular, or prolonged. Some women may experience fewer than nine periods a year, more than 35 days between periods, or abnormally heavy periods.

2. Hyperandrogenism

High levels of androgens, or male hormones, are a hallmark of PCOS. This can lead to physical signs such as excess facial and body hair (hirsutism), severe acne, and male-pattern baldness (androgenic alopecia). These symptoms are due to the excess androgen levels affecting the skin and hair follicles.

3. Polycystic Ovaries

Women with PCOS may have enlarged ovaries that contain numerous small cysts on the outer edges. The term "polycystic" - which means "many cysts" - refers to the appearance of these follicles which, due to hormonal imbalance, do not develop into mature eggs. While the presence of polycystic ovaries is crucial for diagnosis, not all women with these changes will have PCOS.

4. Weight Gain

Many women with PCOS experience weight gain or have difficulty losing weight, especially around the abdomen. This symptom is connected to the insulin resistance often seen in PCOS, which can also place women at higher risk for type 2 diabetes.

5. Insulin Resistance

A significant proportion of women with PCOS have insulin resistance, which means the body's cells do not respond normally to insulin. As a result, insulin and glucose levels in the blood remain high, which can lead to type 2 diabetes and other metabolic issues.

6. Fertility Issues

Due to irregular ovulation or anovulation (lack of ovulation), many women with PCOS find it challenging to conceive. This is one of the most distressing symptoms for those seeking to start a family.

7. Mood Disorders

Women with PCOS are more likely to experience mood disorders, including depression and anxiety. The reasons are multifactorial and may include hormonal imbalances as well as the stress of dealing with chronic symptoms.

8. Fatigue

Many women with PCOS also report increased fatigue and low energy. This symptom can be associated with poor sleep due to other symptoms like sleep apnea, which is more common in women with PCOS due to weight gain.

9. Sleep Apnea

The risk of sleep apnea is higher in women with PCOS, likely due to insulin resistance and increased weight. Sleep apnea involves repeated pauses in breathing during sleep, which disrupts the sleep cycle and can lead to excessive daytime fatigue.