What is polycystic ovary syndrome?

Do you really know?

Polycystic ovary syndrome, also called PCOS, is related to hormonal imbalances in women’s bodies. It’s the leading cause of fertility problems in women and affects one in ten women of childbearing age in the UK, according to the NHS. Despite that, there is very little awareness about the condition.

The most important thing there is to know about PCOS is that it leads to excessive production of androgen hormones, especially testosterone. High testosterone levels in women disrupt the ovarian cycle and, in particular, the development of fluid-filled sacs called follicles in the ovaries.

How does it affect the body, apart from causing cysts? Is the disease still understudied? Do we know why some women produce too many androgens? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions!

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A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.

First broadcast: 04/04/2022

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