What is PCOS? Polycystic ovary syndrome is a condition that affects many women. It affects how your ovaries work causing many problems but the three big ones are. Infrequent, irregular period. High levels of male hormones and cysts on your ovaries. According to the NHS site, if you have at least two of those features you may be diagnosed with PCOS. Symptoms: Irregular or no period at all. This can also affect your chances of getting pregnant. Excessive hair growth (and not where you want it). Thinning and hair loss from the head. weight gain. More prone to spots or acne due to oily skin. You are also at higher risk of developing high cholesterol levels or type 2 diabetes. This is because the hormones including insulin are higher and the fact that most people with PCOS are overweight. Your insulin levels will increase even further. Sadly a lot of these symptoms can affect a person's self-confidence. This means a lot of woman with PCOS suffer from depression and anxiety.