Polycystic ovary syndrome: symptoms and causes of the disorder

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent endocrine disorder affecting 10-15% of women of reproductive age. It occurs across all ethnic and national backgrounds, representing the most common hormonal imbalance in women during their childbearing years and the leading cause of infertility. Symptoms and their intensity vary among individuals. While the exact causes of PCOS remain unclear, insulin resistance—often associated with obesity—plays a significant role. In families with a history of PCOS, up to 50% of mothers and sisters may also be affected. A defining feature of the condition is ovarian tissue damage resulting from immature Graafian follicles, whose development is disrupted before ovulation. In affected ovaries, no corpus luteum forms, and instead of follicular collapse, cysts develop, which are detectable through ultrasound imaging.

The exact causes of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) remain incompletely understood. In healthy ovaries, follicles mature, with one selected as the dominant follicle. During ovulation, a fertilizable ovum is released, while the remaining follicles undergo atrophy. In PCOS, this dominant follicle is absent, disrupting the ovulatory process. The undeveloped follicles persist in the ovary, overproducing androgens (male sex hormones) and progesterone. Additionally, androgen conversion may lead to excessive estrogen levels. Research indicates that PCOS is more prevalent among relatives of affected women, suggesting a significant genetic contribution to its development.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a condition characterized by menstrual irregularities, including irregular bleeding, amenorrhea, or scant menstrual flow. Throughout the disease, hormonal imbalances occur, marked by reduced follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) production alongside elevated levels of luteinizing hormone (LH) and androgens, leading to disrupted ovulatory cycles. Consequently, excessive production of male sex hormones results in various symptoms, such as: irregular and infrequent menstrual cycles, amenorrhea, infertility due to anovulation, masculine traits (e.g., hirsutism, androgenetic alopecia), seborrhea, acne, and skin issues, pelvic pain, central obesity, severe premenstrual symptoms (mood swings, back pain, abdominal pain, bloating), and the appearance of dark skin patches. PCOS is a disorder that disrupts hormonal balance and impairs fertility.