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Joyce Maina opens up about personal struggles with PCOS
06th April, 2026 08:51 AM
Kenyan actress Joyce Maina has opened up about one of the most personal challenges she has faced as a woman living with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS).
In a heartfelt video shared on her social media accounts, she revealed that adult acne has been one of her biggest struggles with the condition.
She explained that the acne appears mainly on her face.
“As a woman living with PCOS, one of my biggest struggles with PCOS has been adult acne,” Joyce said.
Understanding PCOS
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder in which higher than normal androgen levels lead to irregular menstrual periods, abnormal ovulation, infertility, excess facial or body hair and/or acne in women (1).
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), PCOS affects an estimated 10–13% of reproductive-aged women. It is estimated that up to 70% of women with PCOS worldwide do not know they have this condition.
The condition can impact fertility, metabolism, and overall health if left unmanaged.
Causes of PCOS
Additionally, the health organisation stated that PCOS is the most common cause of anovulation among women globally and a leading cause of infertility.
PCOS runs in families but can cause a range of different symptoms and affect women in different ways. PCOS is a chronic metabolic condition that persists beyond the reproductive years.
Women with PCOS are at higher risk for a variety of longer-term health problems that affect physical and emotional well-being compared to women without PCOS, including insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes mellitus and obesity.
Hormonal imbalances, inflammation, and lifestyle factors can also influence the severity of the condition.
Symptoms of PCOS can vary widely between individuals. Common signs include irregular or absent periods, excessive facial or body hair, acne (especially adult acne), thinning scalp hair, and weight gain.
Women may also experience fatigue, mood changes, and difficulty conceiving. Because symptoms differ, PCOS is often diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical exams, blood tests to check hormone levels, and ultrasound imaging of the ovaries.
Treatment
Treatment for PCOS focuses on managing symptoms and reducing long-term health risks.
Lifestyle changes, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and weight management, are often the first step. Medications may be prescribed to regulate menstrual cycles, reduce androgen levels, or address insulin resistance.
For women struggling with fertility, fertility treatments or hormone therapy can be considered. Additionally, targeted skincare routines can help manage PCOS-related acne. Early diagnosis and proper management can significantly improve the quality of life for women with PCOS.
