Word parts
What it means
One of the most common hormone conditions in women of childbearing age. The ovaries make extra androgens (male hormones) and often fail to release eggs regularly, and many small fluid sacs may form in them. It is linked to insulin resistance and metabolic syndromemet-uh-BOL-ik SIN-drohmA group of risk factors, such as a large waist, high blood pressure, high blood sugar and abnormal blood fats, occurring together.Full entry , and raises the risk of type 2 diabetes and heart disease. It is a common cause of trouble getting pregnant.
For the nurse
Teach that weight loss, exercise and a balanced diet can improve the hormone balance and periods. Support the client's feelings about body changes and fertility.
At a glance
| Abbreviations | PCOS |
|---|---|
| Spanish | síndrome de ovario poliquístico |
| Also written | PCOS, polycystic ovarian syndrome |
Related terms
type 2 diabetes
A form of diabetes in which the body does not respond well to insulin and does not make enough of it to keep blood glucose normal.
hirsutism
Thick, dark hair growing in a male-type pattern, such as on the face, chest or back, in a woman.
metabolic syndrome
A group of risk factors, such as a large waist, high blood pressure, high blood sugar and abnormal blood fats, occurring together.
menstrual cycle
The monthly series of hormone-driven changes in the ovaries and uterus that prepare the body for possible pregnancy.