Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common hormonal disorders in young women, affecting 5-10% of women of reproductive age.  In fact, it is the most common problem that we see at our center. The name "polycystic" is misleading since this is not a  problem with ovarian cysts, but rather a hormonal imbalance. PCOS gets it name from the fact that the outside surface of the ovary is dotted with small "cysts." These cysts are in fact follicles (which contain egg cells) that have become arrested in development due to the hormonal dysfunction.  The picture on the left shows what a polycystic ovaray looks like on ultrasound. The picture on the right shows the pearly white appearance of the polcycstic ovary seen at the time of surgery.

PCOS is diagnosed by noting a problem with menstrual irregularities, along with signs or symptoms of elevated male hormone levels (such as abnormal hair growth or acne). 

Women with PCOS may be at increased risk for :

• infertility
• recurrent miscarriage
• diabetes
• high blood pressure
• heart disease
• preeclampsia

Although most reseachers think that PCOS is a genetic disease, the exact cause(s) is unknown.

In most cases PCOS is associated with a condition called Insulin Resistance, in which the body needs to produce too much insulin in order to control blood sugar and not develop diabetes. The extra insulin is thought to afffect the ovary's ability to cycle properly. When ovary does not cycle properly, excess levels of male hormones such as testosterone can cause facial and chest hair, acne, male patern balding, and this in turn may make it more difficult for the ovary to cycle.

For more info on PCOS click on the links below:

• American Society for Reproductive Medicine
• FAQ from the US Dept of Health and Human Services
• National Institutes of Health
• Project PCOS
• WebMD