Stein-Leventhal Syndrome - Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a disorder that results in abnormal hormone levels in a woman. In a normal ovary, a single egg develops and is released during ovulation each month. A polycystic ovary will have many eggs that are never released.

What is going on in the body?

Polycystic ovarian syndrome often begins with puberty and worsens with time. The cause of PCOS has not yet been completely identified. The symptoms of PCOS are related to an excess of the hormone androgen. This hormone can cause male features such as facial hair and male-pattern baldness in women. Polycystic ovaries may be normal in size, or they may be enlarged, with smooth, thick coverings.

What are the causes and risks of the disease?

The exact cause of PCOS is not clear. Some of the possible causes include:

The risk of PCOS increases in women who also have one of these conditions:

What are the signs and symptoms of the disease?

The symptoms of polycystic ovarian syndrome include:

The woman may have several ovarian cysts, or fluid-filled sacs. Small ovarian cysts usually don't produce symptoms. Large cysts or multiple cysts may cause:

Ovarian cysts may sometimes rupture, although this is rare. They may also start to twist. This can cause sudden abdominal pain, bloating, and stiffness.

How is the disease diagnosed?

Diagnosis of PCOS begins with a medical history and physical exam. A pelvic exam may reveal enlarged ovaries. Ovarian cysts may be detected using ultrasound.

Laparoscopy, or the placement of a scope through a small incision in the abdomen, can be used to look directly at the ovaries. A biopsy of the ovary may be performed. This involves taking a small sample of ovarian tissue to be checked in a laboratory. Blood and urine tests may be used to check hormone levels.

What can be done to prevent the disease?

There is no known way to prevent polycystic ovarian syndrome. A woman may be able to lower her risk factors with good weight management. It's also important to seek effective treatment for breast cancer or high blood pressure.

What are the long-term effects of the disease?

The long-term effects of polycystic ovarian syndrome depend on the woman's condition and her response to treatment, but they may include:

What are the risks to others?

Polycystic ovarian syndrome is not contagious and poses no risk to others.

What are the treatments for the disease?

There are many ways to treat polycystic ovarian syndrome, depending on a woman's symptoms. Treatment can include:

Newer treatments focus on lowering insulin levels in the blood. This may help reduce the production of male hormones. It may also lessen the symptoms of PCOS. Metformin is one medicine that has been used for this.

What are the side effects of the treatments?

Surgery may cause bleeding, infection, and allergic reaction to anesthesia. Medicine side effects will vary, but they include allergic reactions.

What happens after treatment for the disease?

The symptoms of polycystic ovarian syndrome can often be managed over time with proper treatment.

How is the disease monitored?

A woman's healthcare provider will monitor her condition with regular pelvic exams and other tests. Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the healthcare provider.

Author:Barbara Mallari, RN, BSN, PHN
Date Written:
Editor:Crist, Gayle P., MS, BA
Edit Date:08/01/01
Reviewer:Eileen McLaughlin, RN, BSN
Date Reviewed:08/01/01

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