What is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) exactly?Updated 6 months ago

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder that is a significant public health problem and is one of the most common hormonal disturbances affecting women of reproductive age. According to the World Health Organization, PCOS affects an estimated 8–13% of women of reproductive age, and up to 70% of cases are undiagnosed. PCOS is characterized by a combination of symptoms, including:

1. Oligomenorrhea - Irregular menstrual periods: Women with PCOS may have infrequent periods or prolonged periods, or they may stop menstruating altogether.
2. Hyperandrogenism - Excess androgen levels: Androgens are sometimes called "male hormones," although both men and women produce them. Women with PCOS may have higher-than-normal levels of androgens, which can cause symptoms such as acne, excess facial and body hair (hirsutism), and male-pattern baldness.
3. Polycystic ovaries on an ultrasound: Ovaries affected by PCOS may contain numerous small cysts (fluid-filled sacs) that surround the eggs - the presence of 12 or more follicles in each ovary measuring 2-9 mm in diameter, or an ovarian volume greater than 10 mL.

Despite the name, not all women with PCOS have cysts on their ovaries, and having cysts doesn't necessarily mean you have PCOS. The exact cause of PCOS is unknown, but it's believed to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors.