Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common endocrine disorders in women of reproductive age, affecting around 5-10% of this population group. It is characterized by an overproduction of male hormones (androgens) in the ovaries, leading to various symptoms, including irregular menstrual cycles, excessive hair growth (hirsutism), and acne. The term “polycystic ovary” (PCO) refers to small “cysts” in the ovaries (these correspond to small follicles) that are characteristic of PCOS.