Polycystic ovary syndrome
New England Journal of Medicine 319(9): 584-585
1988
ISSN/ISBN: 0028-4793 PMID: 3405271 DOI: 10.1056/nejm198809013190917Document Number: 258402
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is discussed. It is characterized by ovulatory failure, infertility, androgen excess manifesting as hirsutism and/or acne, obesity and bilateral polycystic ovaries. Management strategies are generally aimed at reducing insulin resistance and hyperinsulinaemia, because insulin resistance has been implicated as the fundamental instigating factor leading to complications of the syndrome. The effects of diet and exercise on insulin resistance are considered, and the use of herbal medicines and acupuncture in the management of PCOS are discussed.