Polycystic ovary syndrome ( PCOS )

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Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex condition characterized by elevated androgen levels, menstrual irregularities, and/or small cysts on one or both ovaries.The disorder can be morphological (polycystic ovaries) or predominantly biochemical (hyperandrogenemia). Hyperandrogenism, a clinical hallmark of PCOS, can cause inhibition of follicular development, microcysts in the ovaries, anovulation, and menstrual changes.


Its three main features are:

Cysts in the ovaries

High levels of male hormones

Irregular or skipped periods

Emotional And Behavioral Signs And Symptoms

  • Signs and symptoms of PCOS often develop around the time of the first menstrual period during puberty. Sometimes PCOS develops later, for example, in response to substantial weight gain.
  • Signs and symptoms of PCOS vary. A diagnosis of PCOS is made when you experience at least two of these signs:
  • Irregular periods. Infrequent, irregular or prolonged menstrual cycles are the most common sign of PCOS. For example, you might have fewer than nine periods a year, more than 35 days between periods and abnormally heavy periods.
  • Excess androgen. Elevated levels of male hormones may result in physical signs, such as excess facial and body hair (hirsutism), and occasionally severe acne and male-pattern baldness.
  • Polycystic ovaries. Your ovaries might be enlarged and contain follicles that surround the eggs. As a result, the ovaries might fail to function regularly.
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Treatment

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When to see a Doctor.


  • See your doctor if you have concerns about your menstrual periods, if you're experiencing infertility or if you have signs of excess androgen such as worsening hirsutism, acne and male-pattern baldness.
  • You’ve missed periods, and you’re not pregnant.
  • You have symptoms of PCOS, such as hair growth on your face and body.
  • You’ve been trying to get pregnant for more than 12 months but haven’t been successful.
  • You have symptoms of diabetes, such as excess thirst or hunger, blurred vision, or unexplained weight loss.
  • Also, keep in mind that if you do not wish to get pregnant, irregular or absent periods are not birth control in themselves.
  • It may still be possible to get pregnant even under these conditions. It’s best to use contraception in this case even if you have PCOS.

If you’re concerned about your PCOS and don’t already have an endocrinologist, you can view doctors in your area through the Healthline FindCare tool.