Polycystic Ovary Disease (PCOS)

The Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) topic includes research on the causes, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of PCOS, a set of symptoms that can relate to a hormonal imbalance or ovarian issues. PCOS is also known as Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovary Syndrome (PMOS).

PCOS symptoms can affect metabolic, cardiovascular, inflammatory, reproductive, and other aspects of health. PCOS may cause menstrual cycle changes; skin changes such as increased facial and body hair and acne; growths in one or both ovaries, often clumps of ovarian follicles that have stopped developing; and infertility. People with PCOS may also have metabolic issues, such as insulin resistance or obesity. PCOS is the most common cause of anovulatory infertility, meaning that the infertility results from the absence of ovulation. Many women do not find out that they have PCOS until they have trouble getting pregnant.