PCOS from Conception to Menopause: A Review of Our Current Understanding

PCOS from Conception to Menopause: A Review of Our Current Understanding

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) appears to be a part of a lifelong continuum starting in utero, with progressive signs in the adolescent female. It is recognized as the most common endocrinopathy in reproductive age women, and may have sequelae in the menopausal PCOS woman. PCOS is a disorder characterized by hyperandrogenism and chronic anovulation affecting at least 1 in 15 women or approximately 6-7% of reproductive age women. Metabolic and health complications associated with PCOS include obesity, insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, pancreatic beta-cell dysfunction, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, endometrial cancer, sleep apnea, inflammation, and infertility.