TLDR PCOS is a common condition in women that causes various symptoms and health issues, treatable with lifestyle changes and medication.
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) was the most common endocrinopathy in reproductive-aged women, affecting about 15% of this population. It had an unknown, multifactorial origin with a significant genetic component (70% heritability). Diagnosed using the Rotterdam criteria, PCOS presented short-term clinical manifestations like hirsutism, acne, alopecia, and seborrhea, and was associated with insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome, diabetes mellitus, sleep apnea, endometrial cancer, and cardiovascular disease. Initial treatment included lifestyle changes, a healthy diet, and physical exercise. For women not wishing to conceive, combined oral contraceptives were recommended, while ovulation inducers were suggested for those wanting to conceive. Metformin was added for insulin resistance.
222 citations,
January 2014 in “International journal of reproductive medicine” Insulin resistance and obesity are key factors in the development and worsening of polycystic ovary syndrome, and lifestyle changes are important for managing it.
67 citations,
September 2008 in “Dermatologic therapy” Hirsutism is excessive hair growth in women often caused by polycystic ovarian syndrome, and identifying the cause is important for managing associated health risks.
8 citations,
January 1996 in “Gynecological Endocrinology” Cyproterone acetate is the preferred treatment for women's hyperandrogenism when estrogen/progestogen use is safe.
60 citations,
September 2001 in “Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology” Insulin resistance contributes to hormone imbalances in many women with polycystic ovary syndrome.
67 citations,
February 2010 in “Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica” Hirsutism is a strong sign of high male hormones and metabolic problems in women with PCOS, but acne and hair loss are not.
97 citations,
July 2006 in “Dermatologic therapy” The document concludes that accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment are important for skin problems in women with PCOS.
