Polycystic ovary syndrome is a common endocrine and metabolic disorder of women of reproductive age, defined by a combination of ovulatory dysfunction, clinical or biochemical hyperandrogenism, and polycystic ovarian morphology on imaging, typically diagnosed when at least two of these features are present after exc…
Polycystic ovary syndrome is a common endocrine and metabolic disorder of women of reproductive age, defined by a combination of ovulatory dysfunction, clinical or biochemical hyperandrogenism, and polycystic ovarian morphology on imaging, typically diagnosed when at least two of these features are present after excluding other causes. Its manifestations include irregular or absent menstrual cycles, hirsutism and acne from excess androgens, subfertility related to anovulation, and a characteristic appearance of multiple small antral follicles. A central feature in many patients is insulin resistance with compensatory hyperinsulinemia, which amplifies ovarian androgen production and links the syndrome to obesity, dyslipidemia, and increased long-term risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. The condition reflects interacting genetic, neuroendocrine, and metabolic influences on the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis. Management is individualized to presenting concerns and combines lifestyle modification with pharmacological options: insulin sensitizers and dietary supplements aimed at improving insulin resistance and metabolic parameters, agents to regulate cycles and reduce androgenic symptoms, and ovulation induction or assisted reproduction for those seeking pregnancy. Research includes controlled trials evaluating interventions such as supplementation on insulin resistance, body mass index, and reproductive hormone levels, as well as the metabolic and fertility dimensions of the syndrome across the lifespan.
6 peer-reviewed articles, ranked by relevance. Each links to its DOI.
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A sample of recent works citing this journal's research on Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, linking to each citing work.