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

Mosier also said the policy affects intersex women and women who practice hormone therapy for medical reasons, such as to treat polycystic ovary syndrome. —Russell Leung, CNBC, 6 Feb. 2025

Besides preventing pregnancy, hormonal birth control can offer different health benefits, such as lightening periods, easing cramps and treating polycystic ovary syndrome. —Samantha Putterman, Austin American-Statesman, 26 Feb. 2024

Common hormonal issues include polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), diabetes, perimenopause and menopause, according to Tang. —Hannah Yasharoff, USA TODAY, 17 Sep. 2024

That is when she was diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and endometriosis - which can heavily impact fertility. —Mauricio Viladegutt, Newsweek, 19 Nov. 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