Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder in reproductive-aged women. It is common for women with PCOS to ovulate infrequently and experience signs and symptoms of increased androgen (“male” hormone) production. Excessive hair growth along the inner thighs, abdomen, chest, nipples and face are common with this disorder as are acne, weight gain and scalp hair loss.
PCOS can lead not only to infertility and cosmetic problems, but may also predispose women to obesity, high blood pressure and diabetes. PCOS is diagnosed by a detailed history, physical examination, blood tests and ultrasonography of the ovaries. Besides dietary and exercise therapy, treatment options for women not trying to conceive presently include oral contraceptive pills, anti-androgen medications (to reduce hair growth, acne, scalp hair loss and other symptoms), and insulin-sensitizing medications. Many women with PCOS are insulin-resistant, that is, they need to make higher-than-normal amounts of insulin to control their blood sugar. Up to 10% of obese women with PCOS are diabetic. Insulin-sensitizing medications (for example, metformin), help reduce insulin levels and male hormone (androgen) levels and help promote ovulation and improved health. Those women who are trying to conceive are generally treated with insulin-sensitizing medications and ovulation-induction medications (such as clomiphene citrate and injectable fertility medications).
