Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS, Stein-Leventhal syndrome) is a common reproductive-endocrine disorder defined by oligo-/anovulation, clinical/biochemical hyperandrogenism, and polycystic ovarian morphology (Rotterdam criteria), often with insulin resistance. Clinical: menstrual irregularity, hirsutism, acne, alopecia, infertility, obesity, acanthosis nigricans; long-term risk: type-2 diabetes, dyslipidemia, endometrial hyperplasia. Treatment: lifestyle/weight loss; combined oral contraceptives for cycle/hyperandrogenism; metformin for insulin resistance; ovulation induction (clomiphene/letrozole) for fertility.

Common Symptoms

Oligo/amenorrhea; hirsutism; acne; obesity; infertility; acanthosis nigricans; polycystic ovaries on ultrasound

Causes and Pathogenesis

Insulin resistance and hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian dysregulation drive LH excess, ovarian androgen overproduction, and anovulation; genetic and lifestyle factors.

Treatment

Weight loss/exercise; combined OCP; metformin; anti-androgens (spironolactone); ovulation induction; manage metabolic risk

Preventive Measures

Healthy weight; regular exercise; screen glucose/lipids; endometrial protection.

Department to Visit

It is recommended to visit the Endocrinology department; an appointment can be booked on this platform before the visit.

Warm reminder: The above information is for health science reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek medical attention at a regular hospital promptly.