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What causes polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)?

The exact cause of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is unclear. However, it involves abnormal levels of a number of hormones, including: luteinizing hormone, male sex hormones, the female sex hormones progesterone and estrogen, and insulin. These hormonal changes can prevent the ovaries from releasing fully mature eggs. Usually, once each menstrual cycle during ovulation, one or more eggs are released from the ovaries into the fallopian tubes. The eggs then pass to the uterus, where, if an egg is fertilized, it can develop into an embryo. In PCOS, eggs are not released, but instead form tiny cysts in the ovaries. Over time, these cysts can build up and the ovaries can become 'polycystic'. Because eggs are less likely to be released from the ovaries, women with PCOS are more likely to have problems with fertility.10083

Author: Kellie Heywood
First answered: 18 Sep 2014
Last reviewed: 19 May 2018
Rating: 4.4/5 Votes: 250

View the Polycystic ovary syndrome report page.

Related questions

What is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)?

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a long-term condition in women in which the female sex hormones are unbalanced. This is associated with a range of health problems including irregular menstrual cycles and reduced fertility.

What are the symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)?

The symptoms of PCOS vary, but can include: irregular menstrual cycles (infrequent or too frequent), or no menstrual cycles at all; problems with fertility and getting pregnant; weight gain (most women with PCOS are overweight or …

Who gets polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)?

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is most often diagnosed in adolescents, or women in their 20s. You may also be at a greater risk of developing PCOS if you have a family history of PCOS (for example, your sister or mother has it), and if you are …

How is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) diagnosed?

There is no one test to diagnose polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), but your doctor will need at least two out of three of these criteria: infrequency or absence of periods; symptoms or blood test results demonstrating increased androgen …

How is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) treated?

If you have polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a range of treatments is available. You may need to work with a range of healthcare professionals such as endocrinologists, fertility specialists, dietitians and exercise physiologists to manage …

Can polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) be prevented?

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can't always be prevented, but lifestyle measures such as eating a healthy diet, regular physical activity and keeping your weight within a healthy range can reduce your risk of developing the condition, as …

What is the outlook for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)?

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a long-term condition that may need to be managed for the rest of your life. With healthy lifestyle measures and appropriate treatment, most women with PCOS can achieve pregnancy and limit the …

Is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) serious?

Because of the hormone imbalances that occur in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), it can increase your risk of a range of serious health problems, including type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart attack and stroke. Women with PCOS can have …

What increases the chances of developing polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)?

You may be at greater risk of developing polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) if you have a family history of PCOS (for example, your sister or mother has it), and you are also overweight or obese. Women from some …