PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) is a common hormonal condition that affects how the ovaries work. It can cause irregular periods, higher levels of androgen hormones and ovaries with many small fluid-filled follicles.
PCOS symptoms vary a lot from person to person. Common signs include irregular or missing periods, excess facial or body hair (hirsutism), acne, thinning hair on the scalp and weight gain. Some people have difficulty getting pregnant because they do not ovulate regularly. Symptoms usually begin around puberty.
Doctors usually diagnose PCOS when at least two of three features are present: irregular ovulation, signs of high androgen levels, and polycystic ovaries on an ultrasound scan. Despite the name, the "cysts" are small follicles rather than true cysts, and not everyone with PCOS has them. Blood tests help rule out other causes.
PCOS has no cure, but symptoms can be managed. Depending on symptoms and goals, a doctor may discuss lifestyle changes, the contraceptive pill to regulate periods, treatments for unwanted hair or acne, and medicines that help ovulation for those trying to conceive. PCOS is linked to insulin resistance and a higher risk of type 2 diabetes, so regular check-ups matter.
The NHS now calls the condition polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS). The new name reflects that it affects hormones and metabolism, not only the ovaries. PCOS remains the most widely used term.
Sources: MedlinePlus, ACOG, NHS.
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