What is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)?
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a condition in which a woman’s ovaries and, in some cases the adrenal glands, produce more androgens (a type of hormone) than normal. High levels of these hormones interfere with the development and release of eggs as part of ovulation. As a result, fluid-filled sacs or cysts can develop on the ovaries.
What are the symptoms of PCOS?
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Infertility
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Pelvic pain
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Hirsutism, or excess hair growth
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Male-pattern baldness or thinning hair
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Acne, oily skin, or dandruff
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Patches of thickened and dark brown or black skin
PCOS affects 7% of women of childbearing age. In the United States, an estimated 5 million women have PCOS, many of them without realizing it. PCOS affects more than reproduction. It’s also a metabolic problem that affects several body systems.
What causes PCOS?
The exact cause of PCOS is still unknown. In fact, there is probably more than one cause. In general, an imbalance of hormones underlies the condition. It has also been called “ovarian androgen excess” because the ovaries produce male hormones (androgens) in increased amounts.
Source: National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD)
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