Is PCOS common?

Published studies indicate that the condition affects about 10% of women of reproductive age. Polycystic ovaries alone, without symptoms, may be seen in one in five women on ultrasound scan.

What causes PCOS?

The cause of PCOS is unclear. It appears to be a result of a combination of factors, the degree of influence varying in individual patients. It may have a genetic predisposition (present from birth) with environmental factors (like weight gain) making it apparent. There is sometimes a history of first degree relatives like mother or sisters who have the same symptoms.

What else can affect PCOS?

The other significant factor which affects the expression of PCOS, is obesity. Increased body weight is associated with increased levels of the hormone insulin. This affects the growth of the follicles within the ovary, leading to premature arrest of growth, and preventing ovulation. This can be reversed by losing weight and thereby lowering the insulin levels in the body.

There is absolutely no evidence to suggest any risk of cancer in these ovaries.

Are there any long term problems with PCOS?

There is some evidence to suggest that women with PCOS may be at a greater risk of developing diabetes later on in life.

There is also some discussion about the long term risk of heart disease though this has not yet been definitely shown in the studies carried out so far.

Women with PCOS have greater chance of having heavy irregular periods leading to a higher risk of requiring a hysterectomy later on in life. If a woman with PCOS does not menstruate for a very long time, there is a risk that abnormal cells may appear in the lining of the womb, requiring treatment.