Cysterhood

Cysterhood is an informal term used among women who have been diagnosed with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). The hashtag #cysterhood is widely used in social media circles as a means for women with PCOS to connect with, learn from and support others in a similar situation.

PCOS is a set of symptoms that occur in women as a result of elevated androgens (male hormones) in the body. These symptoms can include amenorrhea, weight gain and trouble losing weight, excess hair growth, irregular or heavy periods, fertility issues, difficulty regulating blood sugar levels, male pattern baldness or thinning of hair on the scalp, and patches of thicker, darker skin.

PCOS is also associated with other health conditions including heart disease, type II diabetes, and mood disorders.