Polycystic ovary syndrome

Very low urgency
Common-
It is a set of symptoms caused by the overproduction of male hormones in the ovaries, leading to the appearance of cysts. It usually develops from puberty and until maturity. The cause is unknown but there is a hereditary component. The condition affects 7% of women who are generally obese. It is characterized by irregular menstrual cycles (less frequent with excessive bleeding), acne, baldness, facial and chest hair and obesity. It is a common cause of infertility in women when there is no ovulation and it is associated with diabetes, hypertension and increased cholesterol. A suspected diagnosis is established based on symptoms and is confirmed by blood hormone analysis as well as ultrasound to confirm the presence of cysts. As there is no definitive cure, treatment is symptomatic and involves the administration of female hormones (birth control pills). It is very important to lose weight to prevent hypertension and diabetes. A gynecology specialist should be consulted to assess, control and treat the disease. You should go to an emergency department in the event of excessive menstrual bleeding and high blood sugar levels.
Bibliographic references
  1. Robert L Rosenfield, MD. Diagnostic evaluation of polycystic ovary syndrome in adolescents. UpToDate. Oct 14, 2016.
  2. Robert L Rosenfield, MD. Definition, clinical features and differential diagnosis of polycystic ovary syndrome in adolescents. Jul20, 2016.
  3. Azziz R, Woods KS, Reyna R, et al. The prevalence and features of the polycystic ovary syndrome in an unselected population. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2004; 89:2745.
  4. Rosenfield RL. Clinical review: Identifying children at risk for polycystic ovary syndrome. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2007; 92:787.
  5. Rotterdam ESHRE/ASRM-Sponsored PCOS Consensus Workshop Group. Revised 2003 consensus on diagnostic criteria and long-term health risks related to polycystic ovary syndrome. Fertil Steril 2004; 81:19.
  6. Hall JE. Trastornos premenstruales y dolor pélvico. Harrison. Principios de Medicina Interna. Volumen 1. 19º Edición: 337
Author
Dr. Sara Vitoria
Copyright
© TeckelMedical 2026

Symptoms

    Excess of body hair


    Pain in pelvic area


    Absence of menstruation


    Irregular periods


    Missed three consecutive periods

Symptoms to watch out for

Heavy bleeding (use 6 or more pads during the day)
History of immunodeficiency (HIV, Diabetes Mellitus, oncological disorders, long-term corticosteroid consumption).

Self-care

Reduce consumption of carbohydrates (cookies, candies, cakes, honey and chips).
Get regular physical activity at least 3 times a week that is appropriate for your age and physical condition.
Lose weight if you are overweight or obese.