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

Letrozole is often used as a fertility drug, especially for people with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and unexplained infertility. —Rachel Gurevich, Parents, 22 July 2024

So are many reproductive health conditions, like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and ovarian cysts. —Anisa Arsenault, Verywell Health, 22 July 2024

What’s more, the presence of certain medical conditions (such as thyroid disorders, anemia, or polycystic ovary syndrome, known as PCOS for short) or the use of some medications (including certain antidepressants and hypertension drugs) can contribute to excessive hair loss in women. —Stacey Colino, TIME, 12 July 2024

Weight loss, iron deficiency, polycystic ovary syndrome and illness are just a handful of other causes of hair loss and thinning. —Jacqueline Kilikita, refinery29.com, 4 Mar. 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