PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome): Meaning and Labels
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[Glossary · How doses act in the body]

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

Also called PCOS, polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome, PMOS · Reviewed

Definition: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a set of symptoms tied to a hormone imbalance. NICHD says women with PCOS usually have at least two of three features: no or irregular ovulation, high androgen (male hormone) levels or their signs, and clumps of ovarian follicles that stopped developing. MedlinePlus now also uses the newer name polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome.

What it can involve

NICHD says PCOS is the most common cause of infertility from not ovulating, and many women learn they have it only when trying to get pregnant. Symptoms can include extra hair growth, acne, dark skin patches, irregular bleeding and insulin resistance. The NCI adds a higher risk of diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease and endometrial cancer.

How fertility labels treat it

The Clomid label is approved for women who are not ovulating normally and want to become pregnant. It says some women with PCOS respond strongly to usual doses, so the first cycle starts at the lowest dose and shortest course, and it does not allow use with ovarian cysts or enlargement unless they come from PCOS. Strong responses matter because of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome.

Why it matters for your log

Cycle dates are often the first clue and the main thing a clinician asks about. A log of period dates, any ovulation tests, weight and medicine doses gives a clear picture across months.

Read more on Dose Track: PCOS · Female fertility · Clomid side effects · Inositol guide

General education drawn from labels and published studies, not personal medical advice. Your prescriber, pharmacist and the label that came with your product are the final word.
InfertilityInfertility describes a couple who cannot get pregnant after 1 year of regular sex without birth control,… Ovulation inductionOvulation induction is treatment that aims to make the ovaries release an egg in a woman who does not… Insulin resistanceInsulin resistance is a condition in which the body does not respond to insulin the way it should. NIDDK… AmenorrheaAmenorrhea means the absence of menstrual periods. MedlinePlus splits it in two. Primary amenorrhea is… Ovarian hyperstimulation syndromeOvarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) is an overreaction of the ovaries to fertility drugs that… LH (luteinizing hormone)LH (luteinizing hormone) is a hormone made by the pituitary gland at the base of the brain. In men,…

Frequently asked questions

How is PCOS diagnosed?+
NICHD says women with PCOS usually have at least two of three features: irregular or absent ovulation, high androgens or their signs, and clumps of ovarian follicles that stopped developing.
Does PCOS cause infertility?+
NICHD calls it the most common cause of infertility from not ovulating. Many women find out they have it when they have trouble getting pregnant.

Sources

  1. NICHD (NIH): About polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
  2. NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms: polycystic ovary syndrome
  3. MedlinePlus (NIH): Absent menstrual periods, secondary
  4. Clomid (clomiphene citrate) US prescribing information, DailyMed

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