Midwifery and Womens Health

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormone disorder in women of childbearing age. Females with PCOS may have rare or long menstrual periods and high levels of male hormones (androgens). The ovaries produce large amounts of follicular fluid and may not release eggs on a regular basis. People with PCOS may experience irregular menstruation, excess hair growth, acne, pelvic pain, difficulty in conceiving and thick, and dark, velvety skin allergies. The main signs of this syndrome are hyper and organism, anovulation, insulin resistance, and neuroendocrine disorders. PCOS treatment focuses on treating individual problems such as infertility, acne and obesity. Some of the treatments may include lifestyle changes and medication.

Related Societies/ Associations: Canadian Association of Midwives | International Caesarean Awareness Network | The American Urogynecologic Society | National Aboriginal Council of Midwives | The Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine | The Society for Academic Specialists in General Obstetrics and Gynaecology |