polycystic ovary syndrome

noun

: a variable disease that is marked by amenorrhea, hirsutism, obesity, infertility, and ovarian enlargement and is usually initiated by an elevated level of luteinizing hormone, androgen, or estrogen which results in an abnormal cycle of gonadotropin release by the pituitary gland

called also polycystic ovarian syndrome

Examples of polycystic ovary syndrome in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Michele had previously been diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome during her first pregnancy. —Democrat-Gazette Staff From Wire Reports, arkansasonline.com, 2 Sep. 2024

The Young Woman and the Sea star has a history of being open about her health issues, which have included both endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). —Becky Upham, EverydayHealth.com, 13 Aug. 2024

This is especially common in those with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). —Rachel Gurevich, Parents, 30 July 2024

Reproductive health issues, especially conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and endometriosis can impact women’s ability to conceive and carry a pregnancy. —Niha Masih, Washington Post, 25 July 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1956, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

polycystic ovary syndrome

noun

: a variable disorder that is marked especially by amenorrhea, hirsutism, obesity, infertility, and ovarian enlargement and is usually initiated by an elevated level of luteinizing hormone, androgen, or estrogen which results in an abnormal cycle of gonadotropin release by the pituitary gland

—abbreviation PCOS

called also polycystic ovarian disease, polycystic ovarian syndrome, polycystic ovary disease, Stein-Leventhal syndrome