Polycystic ovary syndrome
(Redirected from Hyperandrogenic anovulation)
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a complex endocrine disorder affecting women of reproductive age. Characterized by a variety of symptoms and biochemical abnormalities, PCOS is primarily noted for its impact on ovarian function and metabolic processes.
Overview[edit | edit source]
PCOS is one of the most common hormonal disorders among women of reproductive age, with a prevalence estimated to be between 6% to 12% depending on the population studied and the diagnostic criteria used. The disorder is characterized by hyperandrogenism, ovulatory dysfunction, and polycystic ovaries, with the presence of numerous small cysts within the ovary.
Symptoms[edit | edit source]
The symptoms of PCOS can vary significantly from one individual to another but commonly include:
- Irregular menstrual cycles or absence of menstruation (amenorrhea)
- Signs of hyperandrogenism, such as hirsutism (excessive hair growth), acne, and alopecia (hair loss)
- Obesity or difficulty losing weight
- Infertility due to irregular or absent ovulation
Pathophysiology[edit | edit source]
The pathophysiology of PCOS involves multiple systems, including the endocrine and metabolic systems. Insulin resistance is a central feature, contributing to both the hyperandrogenism and the metabolic disturbances seen in PCOS. Elevated levels of insulin can stimulate the ovaries to produce excess androgens (male hormones), which can interfere with the development of the ovarian follicles and thus disrupt normal ovulation.
Diagnosis[edit | edit source]
Diagnosis of PCOS is typically based on the criteria outlined in the Rotterdam consensus, which requires two out of three of the following for a diagnosis:
- Polycystic ovaries visible on ultrasound
- Signs of hyperandrogenism, either clinical or biochemical
- Ovulatory dysfunction
Treatment[edit | edit source]
Treatment of PCOS is tailored to the symptoms and reproductive goals of the individual. Common treatments include:
- Lifestyle modifications, such as diet and exercise, which can help manage weight and reduce insulin resistance
- Oral contraceptives to regulate menstrual cycles and reduce androgen levels
- Metformin, a medication that improves insulin sensitivity and can aid in weight management and ovulatory regulation
- Clomiphene citrate and other fertility medications for women seeking pregnancy
Prognosis[edit | edit source]
While PCOS is a chronic condition, the prognosis is generally good with appropriate management. Treatment can alleviate symptoms, reduce the risk of complications such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease, and improve quality of life.
Epidemiology[edit | edit source]
PCOS affects approximately 6-12% of women globally, making it the most common endocrine disorder among women of reproductive age. The prevalence can vary based on the diagnostic criteria used and the population studied.
See also[edit | edit source]
Search WikiMD
Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD
WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia |
Let Food Be Thy Medicine Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates |
Translate this page: - East Asian
中文,
日本,
한국어,
South Asian
हिन्दी,
தமிழ்,
తెలుగు,
Urdu,
ಕನ್ನಡ,
Southeast Asian
Indonesian,
Vietnamese,
Thai,
မြန်မာဘာသာ,
বাংলা
European
español,
Deutsch,
français,
Greek,
português do Brasil,
polski,
română,
русский,
Nederlands,
norsk,
svenska,
suomi,
Italian
Middle Eastern & African
عربى,
Turkish,
Persian,
Hebrew,
Afrikaans,
isiZulu,
Kiswahili,
Other
Bulgarian,
Hungarian,
Czech,
Swedish,
മലയാളം,
मराठी,
ਪੰਜਾਬੀ,
ગુજરાતી,
Portuguese,
Ukrainian
Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.
Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD