Exploring the Four Types of PCOS: Why Personalised Approaches Matter.

If you’ve been told you have Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), you might have left feeling confused or frustrated. Maybe you were told to “just lose weight” or go back on the pill — but deep down, you know there has to be a better way... You’re right.

PCOS isn’t one single condition. It’s a hormonal imbalance with several possible root causes, which is why every woman’s experience is different.

What PCOS Really Is

Despite the name, PCOS isn’t always about ovarian cysts. Those “cysts” seen on scans are often just immature follicles — a normal part of ovulation.

The true hallmark of PCOS is androgen excess — higher-than-normal levels of “male” hormones like testosterone. This can lead to:

• Irregular or missing periods

• Acne or oily skin

• Unwanted facial or body hair

• Thinning scalp hair

• Weight gain or difficulty losing weight

• Fatigue, low mood and poor motivation

The reason these androgens rise can vary — which is where understanding your PCOS type becomes crucial.

The 4 Types of PCOS

1. Insulin-Resistant PCOS

This is the most common form of PCOS, driven by elevated insulin levels. When the body becomes resistant to insulin, it produces more to compensate — and that excess insulin triggers the ovaries to make more testosterone.

Typical signs:

• Sugar cravings or “hangry” feelings

• Afternoon energy crashes

• Weight gain around the middle

• Acne or oily skin

Focus areas: balanced blood sugar, regular meals with protein, movement, and reducing stress to support insulin sensitivity.

2. Post-Pill PCOS

Some women develop PCOS symptoms after stopping hormonal birth control, particularly pills that suppress androgens (like Yasmin or Dianette).

When you come off the pill, your body can temporarily overproduce androgens before hormones settle again.

Typical signs:

• Irregular or missing periods

• Acne or hair shedding

• Fatigue or mood changes

Focus areas: liver support, gentle detoxification, nutrient repletion and regulating natural cycles.

3. Inflammatory PCOS

Chronic, low-grade inflammation can interfere with ovulation and raise testosterone levels.

Typical signs:

• Fatigue and brain fog

• Joint pain or headaches

• Digestive issues or skin flare-ups

Focus areas: anti-inflammatory nutrition (omega-3s, antioxidants, fibre), gut health, stress regulation, and reducing inflammatory triggers.

4. Adrenal PCOS

In this type, excess androgens come mainly from the adrenal glands (our stress-response organs) rather than the ovaries.

Typical signs:

• High DHEAS with normal testosterone on blood tests

• Anxiety, tension or overthinking

• Fatigue, poor sleep or feeling “wired but tired”

Focus areas: nervous-system regulation, circadian rhythm balance, magnesium, adaptogens, and supporting cortisol rhythm.

Why Knowing Your Type Matters

When you know which type of PCOS you have, you can stop guessing and start targeting the root cause. That means:

• Supporting blood sugar balance

• Reducing inflammation

• Restoring adrenal and nervous-system health

• Supporting liver detoxification post-pill

This is how you restore hormonal balance naturally — not by masking symptoms.

Take Back Control of Your Hormones

Managing PCOS isn’t about restriction — it’s about creating the right environment for your hormones to thrive.

As a registered nutritional therapist, I help women identify their PCOS type, understand their lab results, and design a personalised plan that supports: Hormone balance and regular cycles, Healthy weight management, Improved mood and energy, Better skin, sleep, and confidence

If you’re ready to stop struggling alone and finally understand your hormones — book a consultation to start your journey.