Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder seen in women across the globe. There have been many discussions around PCOS continuing to show the adverse effects on physical health, but the emotional effects on self-esteem and body image can be just as devastating. Weight gain, weight loss, acne, hair loss, and excess hair growth can make even the most confident person feel self-conscious. If you have ever looked in the mirror and felt frustration, disheartened, or even ashamed about your PCOS symptoms, you are not alone. Let’s discuss what these symptoms look like when it comes to confidence and self-worth and, more importantly, how to take both back.

Weight Changes and Body Image

The most difficult thing about PCOS is the role that it plays in your weight. Thanks to insulin resistance and hormone imbalance, lots of women suffer from unexplained weight gain or struggle to shift weight despite eating healthily and exercising. This can be extremely frustrating, particularly in a culture that often conflates thinness with health and beauty. Their pressure to conform to a specific body type can contribute to emotions of inadequacy and disordered eating behaviors.

Acne and Skin Issues

Acne caused by PCOS isn’t your average hormonal breakout; it’s often cystic, persistent, and hard to treat. These excess androgens can trigger symptoms such as acne, hyperpigmentation, and oily skin, which can be frustrating and lead to insecurity. The beauty industry sells us perfect skin as ideal, leaving those with acne to feel like they must not only conceal themselves but also be in a perpetual chase for the next miracle new skincare product. Skin issues affect emotional well-being, and breakouts can impact how a person feels about themselves in social settings, among others, and those impacts can be overwhelming.

PCOS can lead to two contrary and equally upsetting hair problems: thinning or balding hair (as a result of higher levels of androgens in the body) and increased hair growth on the face and body (hirsutism). Women may notice their hair thinning out, making them feel as though they are losing a piece of their identity, or they may experience excess hair, leading to embarrassment and frustration. A lot of women spend a lot of time and money on hair removal treatments, on wigs, or on growth serums, which adds to the emotional burden.

The Mental Health Connection

Not only do these symptoms affect physical appearance. Research indicates that women with PCOS are prone to have high rates of anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. The excess of stress created from these body image problems can further throw the hormones out of balance, leading to worsened symptoms of PCOS. Throw in social media, and the pressure to put forth a “perfect” version of ourselves adds fuel to the fire of inadequacy. To cope with PCOS, mental health support is as important as your medical treatment.

Reframing Beauty Standards

Challenging beauty standards is one of the most impactful steps in boosting self-esteem. Beauty comes in all varieties, and confidence isn’t always about looks; it’s about being comfortable in your skin. When you learn to see yourself beyond the symptoms of PCOS, you aren’t so focused on what you dislike about your body but instead on what you like about it.

Self-Care Habits to Embrace Your Self-Esteem

Skincare & Haircare: A skincare and haircare routine that suits you can help you cope with symptoms while also giving you a lot of control. Look for products that contain ingredients that specifically help with hormonal acne and hair health.

Fashion & Style: Outfits that make you feel comfortable and confident can change how you perceive yourself. Finally, dress for yourself, not for the impression others will have of you.

Daily self-care rituals: Take some time each day to do something you love for yourself, such as journaling, taking a relaxing bath, or practicing yoga.

Self-Compassion & Affirmations: Swap negative self-talk with affirmations, such as “My body deserves love and respect,” “I view my body without judgment.”, and “I deserve to wear clothes I like.”

Seeking Support: Consider therapy, support groups, or online communities that offer emotional support and remind you that you’re not alone in this journey.

Learning About PCOS as a Medical Issue: PCOS is not a failure on your part; it is a hormonal disorder that you manage through medical and lifestyle means. Your severity does not determine your value.

PCOS can affect self-esteem in entirely non-physical ways. But self-worth has nothing to do with weight, skin, or hair; it’s about how you view and treat yourself. Keep your circle positive, take a deep breath, and remember that you’re not alone and you have every right to feel beautiful, both outside and in.

Have you battled self-esteem issues behind PCOS? Let’s chat in the comments. Your story could make someone else feel less alone.

 “You have been criticizing yourself for years, and it hasn’t worked. Try approving of yourself and see what happens.” – Louise Hay