acne

The occasional spot can probably be blamed on stress or other factors, but chronic acne may be caused by a hormonal imbalance. The most likely hormonal cause is polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). PCOS is a fertility disorder, caused by excess production of androgens (the so-called male hormones), and characterised by multiple small ovarian cysts (fluid-filled cavities in the ovaries) and often an absence of ovulation.

Although regarded as male hormones, androgens,such as testosterone, are produced in the adrenal gland and the ovaries in women normally. Similarly, men also normally produce oestrogen, the so-called female sex hormone. In each sex, it is the balance of these hormones – the relative amounts - that determines their effects.

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excessive hair growth

Some women have a greater, often hereditary, tendency to exhibit male hair growth (hirsutism). Such hair growth occurs in places where normally only men grow hair, such as the chin or chest. Excessive hair growth can however also be an indication of excess androgen production, and an underlying symptom of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS).

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greasy skin

Just like acne, very greasy or oily skin can be a sign of an underlying hormonal disorder, and is also commonly caused by high androgen levels. Higher androgen levels are often associated with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCO).

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excessive milk production (galactorrhoea)

Loss of fluid or milk production from one or both nipples could be an indication of hyperprolactinemia, a hormone disorder which can suppress ovulation. Prolactin is the hormone that is produced through the pituitary (a gland in the brain) and which controls milk production during and after pregnancy. If the prolactin level in the blood is raised, then fluid loss through the nipple can occur in women who are not pregnant.

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