PCOS – Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

A hormonal disorder common among women of reproductive age, defined by a combination of at least two of the following three criteria (Rotterdam criteria): (1) Oligo- or anovulation (irregular or absent menstrual periods), (2) Hyperandrogenism (elevated levels of male hormones leading to symptoms like hirsutism, acne, or alopecia), and (3) Polycystic ovaries (as seen on ultrasound), with the exclusion of other etiologies such as congenital adrenal hyperplasia, androgen-secreting tumors, or Cushing’s syndrome.

Key Features:

• Oligo- or Anovulation: Irregular menstrual cycles due to infrequent or absent ovulation.
• Hyperandrogenism: Elevated levels of androgens causing physical signs such as hirsutism (excessive hair growth), acne, and male-pattern baldness.
• Polycystic Ovaries: Enlarged ovaries containing numerous small cysts (fluid-filled sacs) visible via ultrasound.
• Insulin Resistance: Many women with PCOS have insulin resistance, leading to an increased risk of type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome.
• Infertility: Difficulty conceiving due to irregular ovulation.

Online References:

• Mayo Clinic: Offers a comprehensive overview of PCOS, including symptoms, causes, complications, and treatments.
• Cleveland Clinic: Provides detailed information on PCOS, its symptoms, diagnosis, and management options.
• Johns Hopkins Medicine: Describes PCOS, including its impact on women’s health, diagnostic criteria, and treatment strategies.
• Hormone Health Network (Endocrine Society): Explains PCOS, its symptoms, causes, and the hormonal imbalances involved.