Poly-cystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common hormonal disorder among women of reproductive age. The exact cause of poly-cystic ovary syndrome is unknown, however signs and symptoms vary from person to person, in both type and severity. To be diagnosed with the condition, your doctor looks for at least two of the following:
- Menstrual abnormality ~failure to menstruate for four months or longer; and prolonged periods that may be scant or heavy.
- Excess androgen ~ Elevated levels of male hormones may result in physical signs such as excess facial and body hair adult acne or severe adolescent acne; and male-pattern baldness.
- Polycystic ovaries ~ Enlarged ovaries containing numerous small cysts
- Infertility ~ because the insulin resistance causes infrequent ovulation or a lack of ovulation
- Obesity
- Prediabetes or type 2 diabetes ~ women with polycystic ovary syndrome are insulin resistant, which impairs the body's ability to use insulin effectively to regulate blood sugar. This can result in high blood sugar and type 2 diabetes. Prediabetes is also called impaired glucose tolerance.
- Acanthosis nigricans ~ medical term for darkened, velvety skin on the nape of your neck, armpits, inner thighs, vulva or under your breasts. This skin condition is a sign of insulin resistance.
