--- title: "Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis & Treatment | infoMD" description: "Polycystic Ovary Syndrome causes irregular or missed periods. Learn about symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, and how to manage polycystic ovary syndrome wi" lang: en json-ld: | [ { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "MedicalCondition", "name": "Polycystic Ovary Syndrome", "alternateName": [ "PCOS", "Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome", "Stein-Leventhal Syndrome" ], "description": "PCOS is a hormonal disorder causing enlarged ovaries with small cysts on the outer edges. It leads to irregular menstrual periods, excess androgen levels, and difficulty conceiving. PCOS is also associated with insulin resistance, weight gain, and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes.", "associatedAnatomy": { "@type": "AnatomicalSystem", "name": "Endocrine" }, "signOrSymptom": [ { "@type": "MedicalSignOrSymptom", "name": "Irregular or missed periods" }, { "@type": "MedicalSignOrSymptom", "name": "Excess facial and body hair" }, { "@type": "MedicalSignOrSymptom", "name": "Acne" }, { "@type": "MedicalSignOrSymptom", "name": "Weight gain" }, { "@type": "MedicalSignOrSymptom", "name": "Difficulty getting pregnant" }, { "@type": "MedicalSignOrSymptom", "name": "Thinning hair on scalp" } ], "possibleTreatment": [ { "@type": "MedicalTherapy", "name": "Weight loss of 5-10% of body weight can significantly improve symptoms" }, { "@type": "MedicalTherapy", "name": "Regular exercise (150 minutes per week) to improve insulin sensitivity" }, { "@type": "MedicalTherapy", "name": "Low-glycemic-index diet to manage blood sugar and insulin levels" }, { "@type": "MedicalTherapy", "name": "Stress management techniques" }, { "@type": "MedicalTherapy", "name": "Adequate sleep (7-9 hours per night)" }, { "@type": "MedicalTherapy", "name": "Limiting processed foods, refined carbohydrates, and added sugars" }, { "@type": "MedicalTherapy", "name": "Combined oral contraceptives to regulate periods and reduce androgens" }, { "@type": "MedicalTherapy", "name": "Metformin to improve insulin resistance and may help with weight loss" }, { "@type": "MedicalTherapy", "name": "Spironolactone to reduce excess hair growth and acne" }, { "@type": "MedicalTherapy", "name": "Clomiphene citrate or letrozole for ovulation induction when trying to conceive" }, { "@type": "MedicalTherapy", "name": "Topical treatments for acne (retinoids, benzoyl peroxide)" }, { "@type": "MedicalTherapy", "name": "Eflornithine cream for facial hair reduction" }, { "@type": "MedicalTherapy", "name": "Ovarian drilling (laparoscopic surgery) if medications don't induce ovulation" }, { "@type": "MedicalTherapy", "name": "In vitro fertilization (IVF) for fertility treatment" }, { "@type": "MedicalTherapy", "name": "Laser hair removal or electrolysis for persistent hirsutism" } ], "riskFactor": [ { "@type": "MedicalRiskFactor", "name": "Family history of PCOS or type 2 diabetes" }, { "@type": "MedicalRiskFactor", "name": "Obesity or being overweight" }, { "@type": "MedicalRiskFactor", "name": "Sedentary lifestyle" }, { "@type": "MedicalRiskFactor", "name": "Insulin resistance" }, { "@type": "MedicalRiskFactor", "name": "Premature adrenarche (early pubic hair development)" }, { "@type": "MedicalRiskFactor", "name": "Exposure to endocrine disruptors" } ], "typicalTest": "Physical examination, blood tests, and imaging studies" }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "FAQPage", "mainEntity": [ { "@type": "Question", "name": "Can you get pregnant with PCOS?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes. While PCOS is one of the leading causes of infertility, many women with PCOS conceive successfully - either naturally or with medical assistance. Weight loss, ovulation-inducing medications like clomiphene or letrozole, and in some cases IVF can significantly improve fertility. Work with a reproductive endocrinologist to develop a personalized fertility plan." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Does PCOS go away after menopause?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Some PCOS symptoms, particularly irregular periods and fertility issues, resolve after menopause as hormone levels change. However, the metabolic aspects - insulin resistance, high cholesterol, and increased diabetes risk - tend to persist and may even worsen with age. Ongoing monitoring and management of metabolic health remain important throughout life." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What foods should I avoid with PCOS?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Focus on reducing refined carbohydrates (white bread, pasta, sugary foods), processed foods, and sugary drinks, which spike insulin levels. A diet emphasizing whole grains, lean proteins, healthy fats, fruits, and vegetables can help manage insulin resistance and reduce inflammation. The Mediterranean diet and low-glycemic-index diets are often recommended for PCOS." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Is PCOS genetic?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "PCOS has a strong genetic component - if your mother or sister has PCOS, your risk is significantly higher. However, it's not caused by a single gene. Multiple genes interact with environmental factors like diet, exercise, and weight to determine whether PCOS develops and how severe it becomes." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Can exercise help PCOS?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Absolutely. Regular exercise is one of the most effective treatments for PCOS. It improves insulin sensitivity, helps with weight management, reduces androgen levels, and improves mood. Both aerobic exercise (walking, cycling, swimming) and resistance training are beneficial. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week." } } ] }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "BreadcrumbList", "itemListElement": [ { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 1, "name": "Home", "item": "https://infomd.com" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 2, "name": "Conditions", "item": "https://infomd.com/conditions" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 3, "name": "Endocrine", "item": "https://infomd.com/conditions/body-system/endocrine" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 4, "name": "Polycystic Ovary Syndrome", "item": "https://infomd.com/conditions/polycystic-ovary-syndrome" } ] } ] --- [Skip to main content](#main-content) [![infoMD](/assets/infomd-logo-CtvTblFD.png)](/) [Home](/) [Conditions](/conditions) [Glossary](/glossary)[Shop](/shop) 1. [Home](/) 2. [Conditions](/conditions) 3. [Endocrine](/conditions/body-system/endocrine) 4. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Endocrine [Hormones](/topics/hormones)[Women's Health](/topics/womens-health) # Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Also known as: PCOS, Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, Stein-Leventhal Syndrome infoMD Editorial Team February 8, 2025 8 min read Share: [](https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfomd.com%2Fconditions%2Fpolycystic-ovary-syndrome)[](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfomd.com%2Fconditions%2Fpolycystic-ovary-syndrome&text=Polycystic%20Ovary%20Syndrome) ### Quick Facts Type Chronic Affects Women of reproductive age, affecting up to 1 in 10 women Prevalence Affects an estimated 6-12% of women of reproductive age in the U.S. Treatable Manageable with hormonal birth control, metformin, lifestyle changes, and fertility treatments when needed See a Specialist Endocrinologist or Gynecologist ICD-10 Code E28.2 ## Overview Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common hormonal disorders affecting women of reproductive age. Despite its name, not all women with PCOS have cysts on their ovaries. The condition is characterized by a combination of hormonal imbalances - particularly excess androgens (male hormones) - irregular ovulation, and metabolic disturbances. PCOS manifests differently from woman to woman, making it one of the most underdiagnosed conditions in medicine. Some women primarily experience menstrual irregularities and fertility problems, while others struggle more with weight gain, acne, and excess hair growth. Many have insulin resistance, which links PCOS to a higher risk of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and metabolic syndrome. While there is no cure for PCOS, it is highly manageable with a combination of lifestyle changes, hormonal therapies, and targeted medications. Many women with PCOS successfully conceive with medical support, and the metabolic risks can be significantly reduced through diet, exercise, and weight management. ## Symptoms Recognizing the symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome early can lead to faster diagnosis and better outcomes. ### Early Symptoms - Irregular, infrequent, or prolonged menstrual periods - Excess facial and body hair (hirsutism) - Acne on face, chest, and back - Weight gain, especially around the abdomen - Difficulty losing weight - Thinning hair on the scalp ### Advanced Symptoms - Darkened skin patches (acanthosis nigricans), especially in neck folds and armpits - Skin tags - Fertility difficulties and recurrent miscarriage - Mood changes, anxiety, and depression - Sleep apnea - Pelvic pain When to See a Doctor See a doctor if you have irregular periods, difficulty getting pregnant, signs of excess androgen like acne or unusual hair growth, or unexplained weight gain. PCOS is best managed when diagnosed early, and a gynecologist or endocrinologist can develop a personalized treatment plan. ## Causes & Risk Factors ### Common Causes - Excess androgen production by the ovaries - Insulin resistance and compensatory high insulin levels - Low-grade chronic inflammation - Genetic predisposition (PCOS runs in families) - Hormonal imbalances involving luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) ### Risk Factors - Family history of PCOS or type 2 diabetes - Obesity or being overweight - Sedentary lifestyle - Insulin resistance - Premature adrenarche (early pubic hair development) - Exposure to endocrine disruptors ## How It's Diagnosed PCOS is diagnosed using the Rotterdam criteria, which require at least two of three features: irregular or absent ovulation (manifesting as irregular periods), clinical or biochemical signs of excess androgens, and polycystic-appearing ovaries on ultrasound. No single test diagnoses PCOS - it's a diagnosis based on a combination of signs, symptoms, and test results. Blood tests typically include testosterone levels, DHEA-S, LH/FSH ratio, fasting glucose, insulin levels, and thyroid function tests to rule out other conditions. A pelvic ultrasound may show enlarged ovaries with multiple small follicles arranged around the periphery. Your doctor will also rule out other conditions that can mimic PCOS, including thyroid disorders, adrenal hyperplasia, and Cushing's syndrome. ## Treatment Options ### Lifestyle Changes - Weight loss of 5-10% of body weight can significantly improve symptoms - Regular exercise (150 minutes per week) to improve insulin sensitivity - Low-glycemic-index diet to manage blood sugar and insulin levels - Stress management techniques - Adequate sleep (7-9 hours per night) - Limiting processed foods, refined carbohydrates, and added sugars ### Medications - Combined oral contraceptives to regulate periods and reduce androgens - Metformin to improve insulin resistance and may help with weight loss - Spironolactone to reduce excess hair growth and acne - Clomiphene citrate or letrozole for ovulation induction when trying to conceive - Topical treatments for acne (retinoids, benzoyl peroxide) - Eflornithine cream for facial hair reduction ### Medical Procedures - Ovarian drilling (laparoscopic surgery) if medications don't induce ovulation - In vitro fertilization (IVF) for fertility treatment - Laser hair removal or electrolysis for persistent hirsutism ### Complementary Approaches - Inositol supplements (myo-inositol and D-chiro-inositol) for insulin sensitivity - Berberine as a natural alternative to metformin - Omega-3 fatty acid supplements for inflammation - Spearmint tea may help reduce mild androgen levels ## Living With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Living with PCOS is a lifelong journey that requires ongoing self-management and regular medical follow-up. Many women find that focusing on what they can control - diet, exercise, and stress management - makes the biggest difference in how they feel day to day. Even modest weight loss can dramatically improve symptoms, restore ovulation, and reduce long-term metabolic risks. The emotional aspects of PCOS are just as important as the physical ones. Dealing with visible symptoms like acne and excess hair growth, struggling with weight, and facing fertility challenges can take a significant toll on self-esteem and mental health. Don't hesitate to seek support - whether from a therapist, a PCOS support group, or trusted friends and family. You are not alone, and effective management is absolutely possible. ## Potential Complications - Type 2 diabetes (more than half of women with PCOS develop it by age 40) - Gestational diabetes and pregnancy-induced high blood pressure - Miscarriage or premature birth - Metabolic syndrome - Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) - Endometrial cancer (from prolonged absence of periods) - Depression and anxiety - Sleep apnea ## Prevention - Maintain a healthy weight through balanced diet and regular exercise - Choose a low-glycemic-index diet to manage insulin levels - Exercise regularly to improve insulin sensitivity - Get regular health screenings if you have a family history of PCOS - Manage stress effectively - Avoid smoking, which worsens hormonal imbalances ## Frequently Asked Questions ### Can you get pregnant with PCOS? ### Does PCOS go away after menopause? ### What foods should I avoid with PCOS? ### Is PCOS genetic? ### Can exercise help PCOS? * * * ## Sources 1. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). Mayo Clinic . 2. PCOS. Office on Women's Health . 3. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists . 4. PCOS. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases . Medical Disclaimer This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Reviewed By infoMD Editorial Team Last reviewed: March 22, 2025 In This Article [Overview](#overview)[Symptoms](#symptoms)[Causes & Risk Factors](#causes-risk-factors)[How It's Diagnosed](#how-it-s-diagnosed)[Treatment Options](#treatment-options)[Living With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome](#living-with-polycystic-ovary-syndrome)[Potential Complications](#potential-complications)[Prevention](#prevention)[Frequently Asked Questions](#frequently-asked-questions)[Sources](#sources) ### Quick Facts Type Chronic Affects Women of reproductive age, affecting up to 1 in 10 women Prevalence Affects an estimated 6-12% of women of reproductive age in the U.S. Treatable Manageable with hormonal birth control, metformin, lifestyle changes, and fertility treatments when needed See a Specialist Endocrinologist or Gynecologist ICD-10 Code E28.2 Advertisement Was this page helpful? 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