What is a common symptom of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)?

Irregular menstrual cycles are a hallmark symptom of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). This condition is characterized by hormonal imbalances that can disrupt the normal regulation of the menstrual cycle. Many individuals with PCOS experience anovulatory cycles, which means that ovulation does not occur regularly. As a result, menstruation may be absent for long periods, occur infrequently, or be irregular when it does occur. This irregularity can be due to the presence of cysts on the ovaries, insulin resistance, and other related hormonal disturbances common in individuals diagnosed with PCOS.

While other symptoms can accompany PCOS—such as heavy menstrual bleeding, which can occur due to prolonged anovulation, and headaches related to hormonal changes—irregular menstrual cycles are more definitive and consistently reported among patients. Hot flashes, typically associated with menopause, and frequent headaches are not defining characteristics of PCOS, which further supports the focus on irregular menstrual cycles as the most common symptom of this syndrome.