Prevalence
1 in 10 women are affected by PCOS
PCOS affects approximately 1 in 10 women globally.
This statistic is based on global PCOS research and reflects widely reported prevalence rates.
A data visual story about
The
PCOS Project
What is PCOS?
A condition that looks different for everyone
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal condition that can affect periods, hormones, fertility, and overall health. Its symptoms and impact vary from person to person.
“My period was always irregular.”
“I struggled with acne for years.”
“My weight kept changing.”
“I felt constantly tired.”
“My hormones felt unbalanced.”
“My body didn’t feel predictable.”
“I didn’t realise something was wrong.”
“My symptoms were different from others.”
“I felt confused about my body.”
“No one explained it clearly.”
“I had to find answers on my own.”
“Everyone experiences it differently.”
These insights are data from PCOS research and reflect commonly reported symptoms and varied lived experiences.
Symptoms
There is no single version of PCOS
Irregular periods affect around
70–80% of individuals with PCOS.
Based on PCOS research and commonly reported symptoms.
Hormones
Internal imbalance can affect the whole body
PCOS is linked to hormonal imbalance, including elevated androgen levels, which can affect the body in complex and unpredictable ways.
Click a point to explore how hormones can affect the body.
Based on clinical research on PCOS and hormonal imbalance.
Long-term impact
PCOS can affect more than the present moment
When PCOS is not recognised or managed, it can be linked to longer-term health and fertility impacts.
Based on WHO and international PCOS research on long-term health outcomes.
What can change
Earlier awareness can lead to earlier support
The goal is not to scare, but to help more women recognise the signs earlier, feel less alone, and better understand their bodies.
70%
remain undiagnosed
↓
Awareness can reduce delays
Earlier support becomes possible
Better long-term outcomes can follow
Based on WHO and international PCOS research on early intervention and long-term outcomes.