Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal condition that affects women of reproductive age, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).
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, making PCOS a leading cause of infertility.
The chronic condition cannot be cured unfortunately, WHO says, but 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, according to WHO.
Data
The condition affects an estimated 8 to 13 percent of women of reproductive age, and up to 70 percent 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, according to the WHO.
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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.
Syptoms
Symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome can differ from person to person, WHO says. Symptoms may change over time and often occur without a clear trigger.
Possible symptoms include heavy, long, intermittent, unpredictable or absent periods. It may also include infertility, acne or oily skin, excessive hair on the face or body, male-pattern baldness or hair thinning, or weight gain, especially around the belly.
People with PCOS are more likely to have other health conditions including type 2 diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, heart disease, or endometrial cancer (cancer of the inner lining of the uterus).
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.
Diagnosis
Polycystic ovary syndrome is diagnosed by the presence of at least two out of the following: signs or symptoms of high androgens, unwanted facial or bodily hair, loss of hair from the head, acne or an elevated blood level of testosterone, after other causes for this have been excluded.
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:
Treatment
There is no cure for PCOS, but treatments can improve symptoms.
People with irregular periods, trouble getting pregnant or excessive acne and hair growth should speak to a healthcare professional, the WHO cautions.
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.
