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Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

Contents of this Article

What is PCOS, How Many Women Have it, & the Causes Symptoms of PCOS PCOS, Menstrual Cycle, & Menopause Tests Used to Diagnose PCOS Treating PCOS

PCOS & Pregnancy PCOS & Risks for Other Health Problems Preventing Complications & Coping With PCOS For More Information

Why Do Women With PCOS Have Trouble With Their Menstrual Cycle?
The ovaries are two small organs, one on each side of a woman's uterus. A woman's ovaries have follicles, which are tiny sacs filled with liquid that hold the eggs. These sacs also are called cysts. Each month about 20 eggs start to mature, but usually only one matures fully. As this one egg grows, the follicle accumulates fluid in it. When that egg matures, the follicle breaks open to release it. The egg then travels through the fallopian tube for fertilization. When the single egg leaves the follicle, ovulation takes place.

In women with PCOS, the ovary doesn't make all of the hormones it needs for any of the eggs to fully mature. Follicles may start to grow and build up fluid. But no one follicle becomes large enough. Instead, some follicles may remain as cysts. Since no follicle becomes large enough and no egg matures or is released, ovulation does not occur and the hormone progesterone is not made. Without progesterone, a woman's menstrual cycle is irregular or absent. Plus, the cysts make male hormones, which also prevent ovulation.

Does PCOS Change at Menopause?
Yes and no. Because PCOS affects many systems in the body, many symptoms persist even though ovarian function and hormone levels change as a woman nears menopause. For instance, excessive hair growth continues, and male pattern baldness or thinning hair gets worse after menopause. Also, the risks of complications from PCOS, such as heart attack, stroke and diabetes, increase as a woman gets older.

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References:
U.S. Department of Health & Human Services - April 2007 - www.4woman.gov

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