POLYCYSTIC OVARIAN SYNDROME - OVERVIEW By NETHRA VIJAYAKUMAR Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), also referred to as hyperandrogenic anovulation (HA), or Stein–Leventhal syndrome is a reproductive endocrine disorder that affects approximately 5-10% of reproductive age women. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) happens when a woman's ovaries or adrenal glands produce more male hormones than normal. PCOS causes cysts (fluid-filled sacs) to grow on the ovaries. Symptoms include. • Irregular menstrual periods • Infertility • Pelvic pain • Excess hair growth on the face, chest, stomach or thighs • Weight gain • Acne or oily skin • Patches of thickened skin Women with PCOS are at higher risk of diabetes, metabolic syndrome, heart disease, and high blood pressure. PCOS is more common in women who have obesity or have a mother or sister with PCOS. To diagnose PCOS, your health care provider may do a physical exam, pelvic exam, blood tests, and an ultrasoun