Polycystic (pronounced pah-lee-SIS-tik) ovary syndrome, or PCOS, is a set of symptoms related to a hormonal imbalance that occurs in women and girls of reproductive age. PCOS may cause menstrual cycle changes, skin changes, cysts in the ovaries, and infertility. NICHD scientists are currently investigating the causes of PCOS, possible treatments, and ways to prevent this problem.
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Common Names
- Polycystic ovary syndrome
- Polycystic ovarian syndrome
- PCOS
- Hyperandrogenism (pronounced hahy-per-an-DROJ-uh-niz-uhm)
- Androgen excess syndrome
Medical or Scientific Name
- Polycystic ovary syndrome