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

For example, getting enough protein is important for people with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).9 In a pinch, protein powder supplements can help achieve daily requirements. —Christopher Bergland, Verywell Health, 12 June 2025

Other potential conditions that can cause menorrhagia include von Willebrand disease and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).17 Dysmenorrhea (painful periods): This condition causes painful cramps and discomfort during your period. —Sherri Gordon, Health, 11 June 2025

One possible cause of these imbalances is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which affects 5% to 10% of women of childbearing age. —Ashley Abramson, SELF, 7 May 2025

Researchers accounted for conditions linked to hair loss, including polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), depression, steroid use, and thyroid disease. —Claire Bugos, Verywell Health, 13 May 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1956, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for polycystic ovary syndrome

• acrosome
• aerodrome
• catacomb
• centrosome
• chromosome
• cytochrome
• hippodrome
• honeycomb
• liposome
• meerschaum
• metronome
• microtome

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