Summary
Read the full fact sheet- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex hormonal condition.
- PCOS can be associated with problems such as irregular menstrual cycles, excessive facial and body hair growth, acne, obesity, reduced fertility and increased risk of diabetes.
- PCOS can be diagnosed by taking a medical history, examination, blood tests and an ultrasound.
- Treatment for PCOS includes a healthy lifestyle, weight loss if overweight, and targeted therapy such as hormones and medication.
On this page
What is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)?
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex hormonal condition that affects about one in 10 women.
It’s common for women with PCOS to have increased levels of certain hormones, including insulin and androgens (male-type hormones), that cause different symptoms.
PCOS may increase the risk of developing other health conditions.
Symptoms of PCOS
Women with PCOS may experience a range of symptoms that can be mild to severe. Symptoms can also change at different life stages. Common symptoms include:
- irregular or no periods
- excessive hair (hirsutism) on the face or body
- skin conditions such as acne and skin tags
- hair loss (alopecia)
- reduced fertility
- stress, anxiety and depression
- weight problems
- sleep problems.
You don’t have to have all these symptoms to be diagnosed with PCOS.
Causes of PCOS
We know that PCOS is a hormonal condition, but the exact cause is not fully understood. It may be associated with family history, genetics, lifestyle and environment.
The name ‘polycystic ovary syndrome’ suggests the problem is mainly with the ovaries and that you might have multiple cysts on your ovaries. But they aren’t cysts – they are eggs that haven’t developed properly.
Genetics and family history
It’s likely PCOS is linked to multiple genes.
It is estimated that up to a third of women with PCOS have a female relative with PCOS. This may be higher in some ethnic groups.
Hormones
It’s thought that increased levels of insulin cause the ovaries to work differently, which leads to high levels of androgens. These hormones cause different PCOS symptoms.
About 85% of women with PCOS have insulin resistance, which means the body blocks glucose from going into cells. This causes the body to make more insulin. Insulin resistance can be caused by genetic factors or lifestyle factors such as being overweight.
If hormone levels are controlled, the ovaries can function normally, and symptoms may improve.
Diagnosing PCOS
If you have symptoms of PCOS, see your doctor. Early diagnosis and support from a team of health practitioners can reduce symptoms and prevent long-term health problems.
When you see your doctor, they will ask questions about your symptoms and medical history.
They may also order blood tests and an ultrasound to learn more.
Sometimes polycystic ovaries can be seen on an ultrasound, but you don’t need an ultrasound to confirm PCOS.
PCOS may be diagnosed if you have two or more of the following symptoms:
- irregular or absent periods
- acne, excess facial or body hair, scalp hair loss or high levels of androgens in the blood
- polycystic ovaries (many small underdeveloped eggs on the ovaries) visible on an ultrasound.
Treatment and management of PCOS
It’s important to work with your doctor and medical team to manage your symptoms and improve your long-term health outcomes.
Your PCOS medical team
Depending on your symptoms, you can seek help from a range of healthcare professionals, including:
- a GP
- an endocrinologist (hormone specialist)
- a gynaecologist
- a dietitian
- a dermatologist
- an exercise physiologist
- a fertility specialist
- a psychologist.
Healthy lifestyle
A healthy lifestyle is the most effective way to manage PCOS symptoms.
This means eating a healthy, balanced diet, doing regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight and reducing or stopping smoking and excessive drinking.
Medicine
Your doctor might also recommend different medicines to manage PCOS. For example, hormonal contraception (to override your body’s menstrual cycle) and Metformin (to reduce insulin resistance).
Other medicines and treatments can be used to help with symptoms like skin and hair problems. For example, acne medicines and laser hair removal.
Emotional health
PCOS can cause stress, anxiety and depression. But there are things you can do to take care of your emotional health. For example, a healthy lifestyle, relaxation techniques and counselling.
Long-term health risks of PCOS
PCOS is associated with some long-term health risks, such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and sleep apnoea.
The good news is that you can reduce this risk with a healthy lifestyle, regular health checks (e.g. blood pressure checks) and medicine if required.
More information
For more detailed information, related resources, articles and podcasts, visit: jeanhailes.org.au/health-a-z/pcos
Where to get help
- Your doctor (GP)
- Gynaecologist
- Endocrinologist
- Jean Hailes for Women’s Health 1800 JEAN HAILES (532 642)
- Dietitian
- Exercise physiologist
- Local women's health clinic
- Community health centre
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- Teede HJ, Misso ML, Deeks AA, Moran LJ et al. Assessment and management of polycystic ovary syndrome: summary of an evidence-based guideline. MJA. 2011;195(6):S65-112.