PCOS is a hormonal disorder that involved a variety of tissues and organ systems within the body. It is believed that PCOS is fundamentally caused by an insensitivity to the hormone insulin (insulin resistance).

Most women with PCOS grow many small cysts on their ovaries. That is why it is called polycystic ovary syndrome. The cysts are not harmful, but lead to hormone imbalances.

PCOS tends to run in families, so you have an increased chance of having it if other women in your family have PCOS, irregular periods, or diabetes. PCOS can be passed down from either your mother’s or father’s side of the family.

The primary symptoms of PCOS are obesity, acne, irregular menstruation (anovulation), infertility, excessive facial or body hair and other effects of andronogenic (masculinizing) hormones. The existence and severity of symptoms vary greatly among women. Treatment can help control the symptoms and prevent long-term problems.

To properly diagnose PCOS a doctor will ask questions about past health, menstrual cycles and symptoms. They will also conduct a physical exam to look for the presence of obesity, excessive facial or body hair, high blood pressure, etc. They will perform a number of lab tests to check your blood sugar, hormone levels and insulin. The hormone tests will help to rule out other problems such as thyroid issues that cause similar symptoms.