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Polycystic Ovary Syndrome — Endocrine Management

A common endocrine disorder of hyperandrogenism and metabolic disturbance.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Internal Medicine department. Book Appointment →

What is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome — Endocrine Management?

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is diagnosed by the Rotterdam criteria when at least two of hyperandrogenism, ovulatory dysfunction and polycystic ovarian morphology are present. It affects 6–12% of women of reproductive age.

Insulin resistance plays a central role in the pathogenesis of PCOS and is present in 50–70% of patients. The risk of metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and cardiovascular disease is increased. Obesity worsens the picture, but PCOS also occurs in lean women.

Treatment is individualised according to the patient's primary complaint: menstrual irregularity, hirsutism, acne or infertility. Lifestyle change is the cornerstone of treatment for all phenotypes.

Symptoms

Irregular or infrequent menstrual cycles (oligo/amenorrhoea)
Hirsutism (male-pattern facial and body hair)
Acne and oily skin
Androgenic alopecia (hair thinning)
Tendency to weight gain and insulin resistance
Infertility

Risk Factors

Family history of PCOS
Obesity (especially central obesity)
Insulin resistance
History of early puberty
Low birth weight

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • If menstrual irregularity persists for more than 3 months
  • If facial and body hair growth increases
  • If there is difficulty conceiving
  • If components of metabolic syndrome are detected

Treatment Methods

01
Lifestyle change (5–10% weight loss is already effective)
02
Combined oral contraceptives (cycle regulation and antiandrogen effect)
03
Metformin (for insulin resistance and metabolic components)
04
Spironolactone (for hirsutism and acne)
05
Letrozole or clomiphene (ovulation induction in infertility)
06
Inositol (myo-inositol + D-chiro-inositol — adjunctive)

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Endokrinoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.