An Overview of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder common among women of reproductive age. The average woman's reproductive years are between ages 12 and 51. It is one of the main cause of female infertility and other health risks.



It has also been statically shown that:
- 10% of women at the childbearing age have PCOS
- 50% of women with PCOS are undiagnosed
- 50% of women with PCOS will develop type 2 diabetes before age 40
- 3x increased risk for women with PCOS to develop endometrial cancer


Most women find out they have PCOS in their 20s and 30s, when they are struggling to get pregnant more than 6 months to a year. If you think you might have at least two to three common symptoms of PCOS, don’t be afraid to seek help from the specialist to understand, embrace it and be mindful with your choices.



References

Sam S, Dunaif A. Polycystic ovary syndrome: syndrome XX? Trends Endocrinol Metab. 2003;14:365–370.