An Overview of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome

Abstract

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is a multifactorial endocrine disorder characterized by hyperandrogenism, hirsutism, irregular cycles and polycystic ovaries. Obesity and metabolic disorders are common in women with polycystic ovaries and 50-70% of them are insulin resistant. The etiology of PCOS is unclear. PCOS affects 10-15% of women and 70% of cases remain undetected due to lack of information and awareness. The diagnostic method differs from PCOS in terms of diagnostic symptoms such as hyperandrogenism or abnormal menses. PCOS treatment focuses on treating symptoms such as hirsutism, oligomenorrhoea, acne, diabetes, etc. Treatment includes lifestyle improvements, metformin interventions or combined with oral contraceptives, spironolactone or switching to adult health care.