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Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a medical condition that, despite its name, affects more than just your ovaries. Recent research has improved our understanding of this condition, which affects about 5 million U.S. women. If you have signs or symptoms of PCOS as described below, see a clinician (doctor, nurse practitioner or midwife, physician assistant), because PCOS can affect your current and future health.
Three factors are considered in the diagnosis of PCOS:
Hyperandrogenism (too much male hormone). In addition to producing female hormones, all women produce small amounts of male hormones, primarily testosterone. Women with PCOS produce unusually large amounts, often leading to hirsutism (excessive body hair, especia…