Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is a very common condition that affects up to 20% of women in their reproductive years. PCOS is a condition in which the ovaries are enlarged and accumulate many tiny, fluid-filled cysts. Instead of the follicles growing and going on to ovulate they don't.

There is a chance that a woman may have polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) if she shows signs of unbalanced hormone levels including: irregular periods; excessive body hair; hair loss; acne; and, if she is overweight and experiences profuse vaginal bleeding.

There is no known cure for PCOS. In the past, treatments focused on lifestyle changes, such as eating habits and exercise. Recent advances have greatly improved our understanding of PCOS and it is believed that insulin resistance is the central cause for this disorder.

The use of oral hypoglycemic medication such as metaphormin improves insulin resistance and may help PCOS patients ovulate. Other medications that improve effective ovulation include clomiphene citrate (Clomid). If this medication is unsuccessful, injectable medications called gonadotropins may be considered.

The use of injectable medication must be done carefully in women with PCOS because it is possible that several follicles may respond to low doses of the medication, potentially putting the patient at risk for multiple gestation (more than one offspring in the womb) and ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome.

While PCOS is a complicated condition with many different symptoms, it can often be safely managed to help patients improve their fertility.