PCOS (now called PMOS) symptoms: the signs, explained

The Symptom Map

Tap a point on the body to see what is happening, how common it is, and what helps. The full list is below the map too.

Ano ang mga sign na may PCOS?

Each symptom links to its own guide with causes, look-alikes, what helps with real peso prices, and when to see a doctor.

• ScalpScalp hair thinningPagnipis ng buhokThinning at the part line or crown, usually slow.Treatable with medicineRead the guide
• FaceAcne that keeps coming backTagyawatDeep, often jawline acne that does not clear with skincare alone.Most commonTreatable with medicineRead the guide
• Face and bodyChin, face or body hairBalbas o buhok sa mukhaCoarse dark hair on the chin, upper lip, chest or belly.Most commonTreatable with medicineRead the guide
• Neck and underarmsDark velvety skin patchesPangingitim ng leeg o kili-kiliDarker, velvety skin on the neck, underarms or groin.Lifestyle helpsTreatable with medicineRead the guide
• BellyInsulin resistance and belly weightInsulin resistance at paglaki ng tiyanCravings, energy dips, and weight that settles around the middle.Most commonLifestyle helpsTreatable with medicineRead the guide
• Pelvis and cycleIrregular or missing periodsIrregular o delayed na reglaCycles longer than 35 days, fewer than 8 a year, or months with none.Most commonAffects fertilityTreatable with medicineRead the guide
• OvariesTrouble getting pregnantHirap mabuntisFewer ovulations mean fewer chances each year, but it is treatable.Affects fertilityTreatable with medicineRead the guide
• MindMood, anxiety and sleepLungkot, kaba at puyatHigher rates of depression, anxiety and sleep problems.Most commonLifestyle helpsRead the guide

Also worth mentioning to your doctor: sleep problems. Sleep apnoea is more common in PCOS, and loud snoring or daytime sleepiness are worth a check. Read more in mood, anxiety and sleep.

How to know if you have PCOS

Symptoms are clues, not a diagnosis. The 2023 International Guideline uses the Rotterdam criteria: two of these three, after other causes are ruled out.

1. Irregular ovulation: from 3 years after your first period, cycles under 21 or over 35 days, or fewer than 8 a year (Rec 1.1.1). Irregular periods
2. High androgens: acne, chin or body hair, scalp thinning, or a high testosterone test. Acne, facial hair, hair loss
3. Polycystic ovaries or a high AMH: on ultrasound, or in adults, an AMH blood test instead (Rec 1.4.6, 1.5.1).

Doctors also check TSH and prolactin, because thyroid and prolactin problems can look like PCOS. Insulin resistance and mood changes are not part of the diagnosis, but they matter a lot for your health, so the guideline asks for an OGTT, a lipid profile and a mood check.

A basic check (OB consult plus ultrasound) costs about ₱1,500 to ₱2,500, and a full guideline workup about ₱4,000 to ₱10,000. See every cost in pesos.

Prices checked October 2026. Prices at Philippine drugstores and labs change often; confirm before you go.

What are the first signs?

For many Filipinas, the first sign is a period that never settled after the teen years, or one that stops coming regularly in their twenties. Others notice acne along the jaw that does not respond to skincare, or a few coarse chin hairs that keep coming back. Some only find out when they try to get pregnant.

Teens are a special case. In the first year after your first period, irregular cycles are normal. Within 8 years of the first period, the guideline needs both irregular cycles and high androgens to diagnose PCOS, and does not use ultrasound.

Pwede bang may PCOS kahit payat o regular ang regla?

Yes to both. PCOS is not limited to people with higher weight, and insulin resistance happens at every body size. And because you only need two of three features, you can have PCOS with regular periods if you have high androgens plus polycystic ovaries or a high AMH. This is called phenotype C. Read about the four PCOS types.

Signs that need a doctor soon

This guide is for information. Talk to a doctor before starting or changing any treatment.