Polycystic ovary syndrome

Polycystic ovary syndrome, or polycystic ovarian syndrome, (PCOS) is the most common <a href="/facts/Endocrine_disorder/nDuNHkJY">endocrine disorder</a> in women of reproductive age. The name originated from the observation of <a href="/facts/Cyst/N1n2ogU9">cysts</a> which form on the <a href="/facts/Ovaries/z2hG6bNy">ovaries</a> 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 <a href="/facts/Hyperandrogenism/ATvFXbXX">hyperandrogenism</a>, <a href="/facts/Anovulation/nbg5Speh">anovulation</a>, <a href="/facts/Insulin_resistance/cz6oFqke">insulin resistance</a>, and <a href="/facts/Neuroendocrinology/lVldJ7MB">neuroendocrine</a> disruption. Women may also experience <a href="/facts/Abnormal_uterine_bleeding/06n59DW5">irregular menstrual periods</a>, <a href="/facts/Menorrhagia/cQUgAGNk">heavy periods</a>, <a href="/facts/Hirsutism/k8o1X8xP">excess hair</a>, <a href="/facts/Acne/TKJxhHSd">acne</a>, <a href="/facts/Infertility/emky9q8L">difficulty getting pregnant</a>, and patches of <a href="/facts/Acanthosis_nigricans/yRSED4vd">darker skin</a>.
The exact cause of PCOS remains uncertain.

Estimates of prevalance vary: PCOS occurs between 5% and 18% of women. Management can involve medication to regulate menstrual cycles, to reduce acne and excess hair growth and to help with fertility. In addition, women can be monitored for cardiometabolic risks and during pregnancy. A healthy lifestyle and weight control are recommended for general management.

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Polycystic ovary syndrome