The Facts
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is not a disease in the usual sense; rather,
it is a collection of symptoms that can affect a woman's reproductive health
and heart health, and can have other significant effects on health and lifestyle.
It affects 5% to 10% of women in their reproductive years. Its risk factors
are not well known, but heredity does play a role.
Causes
The causes of PCOS are unknown. Researchers believe that insulin resistance
and an imbalance of male hormones (e.g., testosterone) and female hormones
(e.g., estrogens and progestins, those important for the menstrual cycle)
contribute to the development of this condition.