Can men have PCOS? Everything you need to know about male PCOS

In a nutshell: 

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common metabolic condition thought to affect at least 10% of the female population. Men with similar genetic makeup can experience symptoms of PCOS without having ovaries; this is known as male equivalent PCOS. Symptoms include early-onset baldness, excess body hair, and acne. 

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a metabolic condition that affects up to 116 million worldwide, but research suggests this common condition can also affect men. The genetic markers that increase the risk of PCOS in women may do the same in men.

Male relatives of women with PCOS may notice they share similar symptoms of the condition, likely due to their similar genetic makeup. According to a 2018 article published in the Journal of Endocrinological Investigation, hormonal and metabolic abnormalities are seen in male relatives of women with PCOS. Though symptoms vary slightly between men and women, some common symptoms include hair loss, excess body hair, and acne.

Scientific understanding of PCOS is still in the early stages, especially when it comes to male PCOS. Early diagnosis can help you to better understand and manage the condition. You may be at an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes, so it’s essential to implement lifestyle changes to minimize your risk.

Struggling to lose weight with PCOS? Take our quiz now to find a personalized solution just for you >>

Can men have PCOS?

Yes, men can be diagnosed with male PCOS. As it currently stands, PCOS and male equivalent PCOS are two different conditions, though this may change as further research is carried out.

Our understanding of PCOS is changing all the time. To receive a diagnosis of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), you must meet two of the following criteria:

• Irregular or infrequent periods
• Elevated male hormones
• Polycystic ovaries 

While men would meet the criteria of irregular periods, it’s probably cheating. So, technically, men cannot receive a PCOS diagnosis; however, they can be diagnosed with male equivalent PCOS.

What is male PCOS? 

According to a 2022 study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism found evidence for a genetically defined male PCOS. This condition increases the risk of excess weight, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease even without the presence of ovaries.

The researchers looked for genetic factors found in women with PCOS and applied these to men to give a polygenic score. Those with higher polygenic scores were more likely to suffer symptoms associated with PCOS, such as obesity and male pattern baldness.

Men with higher polygenic scores had higher levels of androgens and lower levels of sex-binding hormone globulin. These findings are consistent with hormone levels found in women with PCOS, suggesting that PCOS may be present without ovarian involvement.

The definition of PCOS is that it impacts ovarian function, but the existence of a male PCOS calls this definition into question. As scientists better understand PCOS, they will be better able to diagnose, manage, and treat the condition.

Do men have ovaries? 

No, men do not have ovaries. Traditional scientific understanding of PCOS is that it is a dysfunction of the ovaries leading to disruption of the reproductive cycle. However, recent scientific findings highlight that it’s possible to develop symptoms of PCOS without ovaries, so men do not need ovaries to suffer from PCOS symptoms such as obesity and male pattern baldness.

What is PCOS in men? 

When you think of PCOS in women, you likely imagine fertility struggles, excessive hair growth, and obesity. Male equivalent PCOS presents differently, and many men fail to recognize the signs of this condition.

‍

One of the most common factors of PCOS in men is early-onset male pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia). Going bald before age 35 counts as early onset. According to a study published in the Journal of the College of Physicians and Surgeons Pakistan, androgenetic alopecia is associated with metabolic abnormalities, so it’s worth seeking medical advice if you lose your hair early.

Symptoms of male PCOS

Men with female relatives with PCOS are more likely to suffer from male PCOS due to their genetic makeup. Symptoms of male equivalent PCOS include:

• Early onset male pattern baldness
• Excessive hair growth elsewhere on the body 
• Acne 
• Weight gain

PCOS in women is associated with insulin resistance, obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. The same risks exist in men with genetic markers of PCOS. Women with PCOS are advised to lose weight and maintain a healthy lifestyle to reduce their risk of suffering from type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. The same advice may help to prevent these conditions in men with male equivalent PCOS.

When to seek medical help?

Many women with PCOS are undiagnosed, so it’s unsurprising that men follow the same pattern. Many women only receive a diagnosis after seeking help from their OBGYN after struggling to conceive. Without this motivating factor, it’s likely fewer men will seek medical help and receive a diagnosis.

If you think you may have male equivalent PCOS, make an appointment to speak to your clinician for advice. They can advise you on how to manage the condition and avoid potential symptoms that may further impact your health.

Lifestyle changes for male PCOS 

A 2019 study published in Medical Hypotheses concluded that sufferers of male PCOS may benefit from standard PCOS nutritional interventions. Adopting a healthy lifestyle, managing your weight, and eating a healthy, balanced diet could reduce your risk of developing type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. 

Your doctor may recommend you eat a diet high in:

• Fresh fruits and vegetables 
• Whole grains 
• Healthy fats 
• Lean protein 
• Legumes
• Nuts and seeds

They may also tell you to reduce your intake of fatty processed foods, sugary drinks, processed meats, and other junk foods.

You can reduce your health risks associated with male PCOS by making other lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise, getting enough sleep, and reducing stress.

Final verdict

While PCOS is, by definition, a condition related to the ovary, there is growing evidence to suggest this may not always be the case. Despite having no ovaries, men can develop many of the symptoms associated with PCOS. Men with female relatives with PCOS are more likely to develop these symptoms, suggesting a genetic link.

Unfortunately, our understanding of PCOS is limited, and where male PCOS is concerned, explorations are still in the beginning stages. While there is likely to be more research into this condition in the future, we know very little right now. If you are worried you may have male PCOS, speak to your doctor for advice.

Genetic factors may increase your risk of PCOS symptoms, including cardiovascular disease, male pattern baldness, and type 2 diabetes. Men with genetic markers for PCOS have an increased risk of excess weight, which can further increase their risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and other health problems.

Losing weight helps to keep your overall risk of these conditions low. Eating a healthy, balanced diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein can help you maintain a healthy weight. Regular exercise is essential for good health, so include exercise in your daily routine.