Episode Details

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is often misunderstood, misnamed, and missed for years,even when symptoms begin early in life. So much so that it recently even had a rebrand and is now more appropriately called now be called Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS). In this episode, we are still referring to it as PCOS, despite this new more appropriate name. 

I am speaking with Megan Stewart, founder and executive director of the PCOS Awareness Association, about what PCOS actually is, why diagnosis is often delayed, and how symptoms can look completely different from person to person. We also explore the emotional, metabolic, and systemic nature of the condition, and why self-advocacy plays such an important role in care.

Megan and I chat about: 

• Why PCOS is more accurately an endocrine and metabolic condition, not just an ovarian issue
• The wide range of symptoms, including hair changes, acne, mood shifts, and insulin resistance
• Why PCOS often goes undiagnosed for years and is frequently dismissed as “normal puberty”
• How PCOS can impact fertility, mental health, and long-term metabolic health
• The role of insulin resistance and how it connects to broader systemic symptoms
• Why no two PCOS presentations look the same
• The importance of asking for specific lab tests and understanding your own results
• How lifestyle approaches like nutrition, movement, and stress support can be highly individual
• Why self-advocacy and education are critical in closing the diagnostic gap
• The value of community support and resources for individuals and families navigating PCOS

Megan Stewart is the Founder and Executive Director of PCOS Awareness Association, one of the leading organizations dedicated to education, advocacy, and support for people with PCOS. She works to close the diagnosis gap, improve healthcare equity, and empower individuals to understand and advocate for their own bodies. Through community programs and nationwide initiatives, Megan champions compassionate, evidence-based PCOS care.

Episode Links

Follow PCOS Awareness Association on Instagram 

Visit pcosaa.org

Learn more about PCOS at pcoscon.org

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