Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: Pathophysiology, Symptoms, Risk Factors, and Pharmacological Treatment

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent endocrine disorder affecting women of reproductive age, characterized by chronic anovulation, polycystic ovaries, and hyperandrogenism, leading to symptoms like irregular menstrual cycles, hirsutism, acne, and infertility. The exact cause is not fully understood but involves factors such as genetics, environmental influences, insulin resistance, and obesity. PCOS is linked to several comorbidities, including insulin resistance, hypertension, dyslipidemia, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases. Lifestyle factors like poor diet and lack of exercise contribute to infertility and obesity in affected women. Treatment options include medications like spironolactone, flutamide, and clomiphene citrate, among others, as well as Vitamin D and calcium supplements. The review focuses on understanding the etiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management of PCOS.