Polycystic ovarian disease is the most common endocrine disorder among women, affecting 5-8% of the population. The condition is characterized by various combinations of irregular menstruation, signs of excess male hormone ( excess body hair, acne) and ovaries which are enlarged and cystic on ultrasounds. Before a womean is labelled as having PCO certain other hormone abnormalities must first be excluded. Therefore, investigation of PCOS involves ultrasound visualization of the ovaries as well as blood testing.

Treatments depend on the needs of the women - fertility versus menstrual cycle control versus minimization of acne or excess hair growth . Treatment begins with lifestyle changes involving diet and exercise. Hormone therapy often focuses on improving the action of insulin within the body. In rare occasions the main issues are adrenal and pituitary gland function. When fertility is the goal, fertility drugs such as clomiphene (a pill) or gonadotropins (injections) are employed. Birth control pills and/or anti-male hormone preparations are used to control symptoms when becoming pregnant is not an immediate concern.