Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: Explaining the Gynecological Aspects and Treatment Options to Patients

The 2015 review by Professor Robert L Reid discussed Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), a condition causing reproductive and metabolic health issues in women, including oligomenorrhea, acne, hirsutism, androgenic alopecia, infertility, endometrial hyperplasia, malignancy, dyslipidemia, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. The article emphasized the importance of clear patient communication about PCOS etiology and treatment, highlighting lifestyle modifications, especially weight loss for obese patients. The document also discussed treatment options like Metformin, exogenous gonadotropins, laparoscopic ovarian drilling, lifestyle modification, topical therapy with Eflornithine, and systemic therapy with combined hormonal contraceptives and anti-androgens. Metformin was found beneficial for women with PCOS, particularly those with insulin resistance, obesity, and menstrual irregularity, but its use for ovulation induction was questioned. The document concluded that understanding PCOS and its contributory factors can lead to successful treatment outcomes.