Polycystic ovary syndrome, or PCOS, is the most common endocrine disorder in women of reproductive age. A review of international prevalence of PCOS found that over 2-26% prevalence of PCOS has been documented across various countries. Despite its prevalence, the exact cause of PCOS remains uncertain.

Its primary characteristics include hyperandrogenism, anovulation, insulin resistance, and neuroendocrine disruption. The syndrome is named after the characteristic cysts which may form on the ovaries, though it is important to note that this is a symptom and not the underlying cause of the disorder.

PCOS is caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Risk factors include obesity, a lack of physical exercise, and a family history of someone with the condition. Diagnosis is based on two of the following three findings: anovulation, high androgen levels, and ovarian cysts. Cysts may be detectable by ultrasound. Other conditions that produce similar symptoms include adrenal hyperplasia, hypothyroidism, and high blood levels of prolactin.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) cannot be cured, but the symptoms can be managed.

Lifestyle: In overweight women, the symptoms and overall risk of developing long-term health problems from PCOS can be greatly improved by losing excess weight. Weight loss of just 5% can lead to a significant improvement in PCOS.

Medicine: A number of medicines are available to treat different symptoms associated with PCOS.

Menstrual problems: The pill may be recommended to induce regular periods, or periods may be induced using an intermittent course of progestogen tablets (which are usually given every 3 to 4 months, but can be given monthly).

Fertility problems :Women with PCOS are able to get pregnant. The majority of women can be successfully treated with a short course of tablets taken at the beginning of each cycle for several cycles.

These are not successful, you may be offered injections or IVF treatment. There’s an increased risk of a multiple pregnancy (rarely more than twins) with these treatments.

Change diet: Eating the right foods and avoiding certain ingredients may help you manage your symptoms. A nourishing diet can help regulate your hormones and your menstrual cycle.