Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Menstrual irregularities

Approximately 60-70 percent of women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) exhibit menstrual dysfunction related to anovulation. The most common abnormalities are infrequent periods (oligomenorrhoea) and absence of period (amenorrhoea). Frequent and prolonged periods (polymenorrhoea) are very uncommon (less than two percent). One quarter of patients have regular periods.

Skin problems

They are either markers of hyperandrogenism (excessive production of male hormones) or insulin resistance.

1. Hirsutism
   It is the growth of terminal hairs on the face or body in a male pattern. It is the most important feature of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), affecting 65-75 percent of women and varies with ethnicity.
   
2. Acne
   Acne persisting beyond adolescence and oily skin can be clinical signs of hyperandrogenism. Its prevalence in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is 12-14 percent.
   
3. Acanthosis Nigricans
   It is a marker of insulin resistance occurring in 1 to 3 percent of women and manifests as dark and thickened, pigmented areas of skin commonly affecting the underarm, neck, perineum or skin surfaces of the elbow and knuckles.

Infertility

The difficulty in conceiving is mainly due to chronic anovulation. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) accounts for approximately 75 percent of anovulatory subfertility.

Obesity

Obesity is often associated with PCOS (30-70 percent), but many patients with PCOS are of normal weight.