Polycystic ovary syndrome
| Polycystic ovary syndrome | |
|---|---|
| Other names | Hyperandrogenic anovulation (HA), Stein-Leventhal syndrome |
| A polycystic ovary | |
| Specialty | Gynecology, endocrinology |
| Symptoms | Irregular menstrual periods, heavy periods, excess hair, acne, pelvic pain, difficulty getting pregnant, patches of thick, darker, velvety skin |
| Complications | Type 2 diabetes, obesity, obstructive sleep apnea, heart disease, mood disorders, endometrial cancer |
| Duration | Long term |
| Causes | Genetic and environmental factors |
| Risk factors | Obesity, not enough exercise, family history |
| Diagnostic method | Based on anovulation, high androgen levels, ovarian cysts |
| Differential diagnosis | Adrenal hyperplasia, hypothyroidism, high blood levels of prolactin |
| Treatment | Weight loss, exercise |
| Medication | Birth control pills, metformin, GLP-1, anti-androgens |
| Frequency | 2% to 20% of women of childbearing age |
Polycystic ovary syndrome, or polycystic ovarian syndrome, (PCOS) is the most common endocrine disorder in women of reproductive age. The name is a misnomer, as not all women with this condition develop cysts on their ovaries. The name originated from the observation of cysts which form on the ovaries of some women with this condition. However, this is not a universal symptom and is not the underlying cause of the disorder.
The primary characteristics of PCOS include hyperandrogenism, anovulation, insulin resistance, and neuroendocrine disruption. Women may also experience irregular menstrual periods, heavy periods, excess hair, acne, pelvic pain, difficulty getting pregnant, and patches of darker skin.
Beyond its reproductive implications, PCOS is increasingly recognized as a multifactorial metabolic condition with significant long-term health consequences, including an elevated risk of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes.
A review of international evidence found that the prevalence of PCOS could be as high as 26% among some populations, though ranges between 4% and 18% are reported for general populations. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), PCOS affects over 8-13% of reproductive-aged women.
The exact cause of PCOS remains uncertain, and treatment involves management of symptoms using medication.