Premium
The current status of polycystic ovary syndrome
Author(s) -
Kovacs Gabor,
Wood Carl
Publication year - 2001
Publication title -
australian and new zealand journal of obstetrics and gynaecology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.734
H-Index - 65
eISSN - 1479-828X
pISSN - 0004-8666
DOI - 10.1111/j.1479-828x.2001.tb01296.x
Subject(s) - polycystic ovary , anovulation , hyperandrogenism , insulin resistance , ovulation , medicine , ovulation induction , gynecology , endocrinology , physiology , insulin , hormone
SUMMARY The importance of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) has recently received much publicity. Whereas previously it was thought simply to be a disorder which was characterised by irregular ovulation, there is now evidence to show that it is a systemic metabolic disease determined genetically and inherited. As well as treating the presenting problem which, for gynaecologists is usually one of irregular menstruation and anovulation, or sometimes signs of hyperandrogenism, we believe that women should also be screened for their lipid status and insulin resistance. Advice on behaviour modification such as increased exercise and dietary adjustment should be recommended in addition to the treatment for ovulation induction. In the future, the use of insulin sensitising agents may become important in the treatment of PCOS.