Can you have pcos without hair growth?

Yes, you can have PCOS without any excess hair growth, as symptoms vary from person to person. Just like with my high blood pressure, sometimes there are no visible signs, but the internal metabolic system is affected. Regular health checkups and a clean lifestyle are very important.

When I visited the endocrinology department at Apollo, the doctor told me that excess hair growth only happens in some phenotypes of PCOS. Many women only have metabolic or cycle-related issues. I highly recommend asking your doctor clearly and getting a proper blood test done.

I might not know much about hair growth, but I do know that PCOS can mess with your insulin and give you crazy sweet cravings. Even if you don't have the physical hair symptoms, watch out for those sudden urges to eat rabri or jalebi, and try to keep your diet balanced.

Clinical presentation of PCOS is highly heterogeneous, meaning it varies widely. My sister's gynecologist explained that you do not need to have hirsutism, or excess hair growth, to qualify for a diagnosis under the standard Rotterdam criteria. High insulin or irregular ovulation alone can confirm it.

I can only speak from my own journey with PCOS. I have never had any unwanted hair growth on my face or body, but my ultrasound clearly showed polycystic ovaries. Everyone's body is different, so it's always best to get a professional medical opinion.