Filed under: Women's Health Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is
a common hormonal disorder among women of reproductive age. The
name of the condition comes from the appearance of the ovaries
in most, but not all, women with the disorder — enlarged and
containing numerous small cysts located along the outer edge of
each ovary (polycystic appearance). Infrequent or prolonged
menstrual periods, excess hair growth, acne and obesity can all
occur in women with polycystic ovary syndrome. In adolescents,
infrequent or absent menstruation may signal the condition. In
women past adolescence, difficulty becoming pregnant or
unexplained weight gain may be the first sign. The exact cause
of polycystic ovary syndrome is unknown. Early diagnosis and
treatment may reduce the risk of long-term complications, such
as type 2 diabetes and heart disease. Want to know more about
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