College is supposed to be one of the most exciting and formative times in a person’s life. It is a time for independence, new friendships, and self-discovery. For students living with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), however, it can also bring unique challenges that often go unseen. Managing this condition while balancing academics, social life, and self-care can feel overwhelming. Still, with understanding, structure, and the right support, it is possible to thrive both academically and personally.
Understanding PCOS in Young Adulthood: PCOS is a common hormonal disorder that affects the ovaries, metabolism, and mental health. It is linked to irregular periods, weight fluctuations, acne, hair growth, and fertility concerns. A recent study described PCOS as a “complex mixture of genetic, hormonal, and lifestyle factors” that influences multiple aspects of a person’s health (Ning et al., 2024).
Although it often begins in adolescence, college is the stage when many young women start to fully experience and understand its effects. Recent studies show that the condition is increasingly common among college-aged women. One study found that nearly one in ten female medical students had a PCOS diagnosis, and many others showed symptoms like irregular cycles or mood swings (Sarkar et al., 2024). Another study found that more than 17 percent of college-going women in India met the criteria for PCOS (Kaur et al., 2024). The numbers make one thing clear: if you are struggling with PCOS in college, you are not alone. Many students are managing similar challenges, even if they rarely talk about them.
The Reality of PCOS in College Life: College can test anyone’s endurance, but for students with PCOS, there are extra layers of difficulty. Fatigue, unpredictable energy levels, and painful or irregular periods can make it hard to attend early classes or sit through long lectures. Concentration can be difficult, especially when hormones fluctuate or sleep is disrupted.
Beyond the physical symptoms, PCOS can also affect mental health. Research has shown that women with PCOS are nearly three times more likely to experience depression and four times more likely to experience anxiety compared to those without the condition (Ning et al., 2024). These challenges can lead to feelings of isolation, stress, and self-doubt, especially in a high-pressure academic environment.
Diet and lifestyle habits can also be affected. Dorm life often means irregular meals, limited food options, and late nights. These changes can make it difficult to maintain balanced nutrition and regular routines. For someone with PCOS, where blood sugar regulation and consistent habits are key to symptom management, this can be especially tough.
Socially, PCOS can take a quiet emotional toll. Students often report feeling self-conscious about acne, weight gain, or hair growth, which can influence confidence and relationships. A 2024 report from the University of Colorado found that many women with PCOS feel dismissed or misunderstood by healthcare professionals, adding to the frustration of living with a condition that is already misunderstood by peers (University of Colorado Anschutz, 2024).
Build a Strong Healthcare Support System: Having a care team that understands PCOS can make all the difference. Experts recommend a multidisciplinary approach that includes a gynecologist, an endocrinologist, a dietitian, and a mental health provider (CU Medicine, 2024). Most college campuses have health centers that can refer students to specialists or help coordinate care near campus. If you live far from home, plan your appointments around academic breaks to stay consistent with treatment.
Maintain a Routine: Consistency helps stabilize hormones. Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day. Eat regular meals with a balance of protein, fiber, and healthy fats, and make time for movement you enjoy. This does not mean following strict workout plans—it can simply be walking to class, stretching, or doing yoga with a friend. Research continues to show that regular activity helps manage both the physical and emotional symptoms of PCOS (Ning et al., 2024).
Manage Stress and Protect Your Mental Health: Stress plays a powerful role in PCOS by influencing hormones and blood sugar regulation. College is full of stressors—exams, deadlines, and social expectations—but learning to manage them early helps long-term health. Mindfulness practices, journaling, deep breathing, or therapy sessions can help reduce anxiety and improve emotional stability. A 2025 study found that women with PCOS who experienced high stress levels had significantly worse sleep and mental health outcomes (Frontiers in Global Women’s Health, 2025).
Seek Connection and Support: Finding others who understand can make the college experience more manageable. Whether through campus health groups, online forums, or trusted friends, connection helps reduce isolation. A 2023 study found that college students who had strong social support reported better overall quality of life with PCOS (The BioScan Journal, 2023). Even if your friends do not fully understand what you are going through, talking openly can reduce shame and strengthen your relationships.
My Personal Reflection: If I could go back to my first semester, I would tell myself that it is okay to rest. It is okay to say no when your body needs time to recharge. I would remind myself that missing a class to take care of your health does not mean you are falling behind, it means you are building resilience. College can feel fast-paced and competitive, but living with PCOS requires a kind of strength that is often invisible. It teaches you to listen to your body, to practice patience, and to celebrate small victories. Every morning you show up, every time you advocate for yourself, and every effort you make to balance your health with your goals is something to be proud of.
Looking Beyond College: The habits built during these years will carry into adulthood. PCOS is a lifelong condition, but it is one that can be managed with knowledge, care, and balance. According to the Endocrine Society, early lifestyle interventions and self-awareness are key to reducing future risks like type 2 diabetes or cardiovascular disease (Endocrine News, 2024). By taking care of yourself now, you are laying the foundation for a healthy and empowered future.
References
- Ning, L., et al. (2024). Polycystic ovary syndrome and its multidimensional impact: A narrative review. Medicine (Baltimore).
https://journals.lww.com/md-journal/fulltext/2024/06210/polycystic_ovary_syndrome_and_its_multidimensional.16.aspx - Sarkar, S., et al. (2024). Prevalence of polycystic ovarian syndrome and its association with lifestyle factors among medical students in India. PubMed Central.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39463513/ - Kaur, T., et al. (2024). Prevalence of polycystic ovarian syndrome and associated lifestyle factors among college students (18–25 years). Journal of Family Medicine and Primary Care.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12039125/ - Frontiers in Global Women’s Health. (2025). The impact of PCOS on sleep and mental health: A cross-sectional analysis.
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/global-womens-health/articles/10.3389/fgwh.2025.1520641/full - University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus. (2024). Polycystic ovary syndrome patients say they feel dismissed and misunderstood, according to new study.
https://news.cuanschutz.edu/news-stories/polycystic-ovary-syndrome-patients-say-they-feel-dismissed-and-misunderstood-according-to-new-study - The BioScan Journal. (2023). Assessment of PCOS awareness and lifestyle among college students living with and without family.
https://thebioscan.com/index.php/pub/article/view/4172 - CU Medicine Blog – Women’s Behavioral Health and Wellness. (2024). PCOS care through a multidisciplinary approach.
https://medschool.cuanschutz.edu/docs/librariesprovider45/wbhw-website/march-wbhw-blog.pdf - Endocrine News. (2024). New perspectives on PCOS.
https://endocrinenews.endocrine.org/new-perspectives-on-pcos/
