Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal condition that affects women of reproductive age. It usually starts during adolescence, but symptoms may fluctuate over time.

PCOS can cause hormonal imbalances, irregular periods, excess androgen levels and cysts in the ovaries. Irregular periods, usually with a lack of ovulation, can make it difficult to become pregnant. PCOS is a leading cause of infertility.

PCOS is a chronic condition and cannot be cured. However, some symptoms can be improved through lifestyle changes, medications and fertility treatments.

The cause of PCOS is unknown but women with a family history or type 2 diabetes are at higher risk.

PCOS a significant public health problem and is one of the commonest hormonal disturbances affecting women of reproductive age. The condition affects an estimated 6–13% of women of reproductive age, and up to 70% of cases are undiagnosed.

The prevalence of PCOS is higher among some ethnicities and these groups often experience more complications, in particular related to metabolic problems.

The biological and psychological effects of PCOS, particularly those related to obesity, body image and infertility, can lead to mental health challenges and social stigma.

Symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome can differ from person to person. Symptoms may change over time and often occur without a clear trigger.

Possible symptoms include:

People with PCOS are more likely to have other health conditions including:

PCOS can also cause anxiety, depression and a negative body image. Some symptoms such as infertility, obesity and unwanted hair growth can lead to social stigma. This can affect other life areas such as family, relationships, work and involvement in the community.

Polycystic ovary syndrome is diagnosed by the presence of at least two out of the following:

Blood tests can be used to identify characteristic changes in hormone levels, although these changes are not universal. Women with polycystic ovary syndromemay have elevated levels of:

When making a diagnosis, doctors also take into account that irregular periods and ovulation can be a normal part of puberty or menopause, having polycystic ovaries may run in families, and women with a family history of PCOS or type 2 diabetes are at higher risk of PCOS. In addition, the ultrasound picture is not always clear and some women with PCOS may have an ultrasound scan that does not demonstrate polycystic ovaries.

There is no cure for PCOS, but treatments can improve symptoms.

People who have irregular periods, trouble getting pregnant or excessive acne and hair growth should speak to a healthcare professional.

Some symptoms of PCOS can be reduced through lifestyle changes. Eating a healthy diet and getting enough exercise can help reduce weight and reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes.

Birth control medicines (contraceptive pill) can help regulate the menstrual cycle and reduce symptoms. Other medicines can reduce acne or unwanted hair growth caused by PCOS.

Treatments for infertility due to PCOS include lifestyle changes, medicines or surgery to stimulate regular ovulation. In-vitro fertilization (IVF) may be used but it has some risks

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the name for set of symptoms that are related to an imbalance of hormones. PCOS affects the ovaries, as well as many other parts of the body.

People with PCOS usually have at least two of these problems:

The exact cause of PCOS in unknown. Research has shown that different factors may play a role, including:

Insulin resistance. This is a condition in which your body can’t use insulin properly. Insulin is a hormone that helps move blood glucose (sugar) into your cells to give them energy. Insulin resistance can lead to high blood glucose levels

PCOS often develops as young as age 11 or 12, around the time of your first period. But you can develop it later.

The symptoms can vary from person to person. Some people have few or even no symptoms. They may not realize they have PCOS until they have trouble getting pregnant. Other people may have more severe symptoms.

The symptoms of PCOS may include:

PCOS is linked to many other health problems, including:

Although there are links between PCOS and these conditions, researchers do not know whether:

Not everyone who has PCOS will have all these problems. However, you and your health care provider may want to monitor your health for signs of them, so they can be treated early.

There is no specific test for PCOS. To find out if you have PCOS, your provider:

There is no cure for PCOS, but treatments can help you manage your symptoms. The treatments may include:

Endometriosis doesn’t cause weight gain, but the bloating and fluid retention can make you feel like you’re gaining weight.

Healthcare providers don’t know for sure what causes endometriosis. When you have endometriosis, tissue that is similar to the lining of your uterus grows in the wrong places. Researchers are looking for a connection between endometriosis and conditions like retrograde menstruation, immune system conditions and hormone disorders as possible factors that may lead to the condition.