Irregular Periods and PCOS: Symptoms, Causes and Diagnosis

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a problem with hormones that happens during the reproductive years. In PCOS, there is a hormonal imbalance that occurs when the ovaries (the organ that produces and releases eggs) create extra hormones. The ovaries produce unusually high levels of hormones called androgens. This causes the reproductive hormones to become imbalanced. As a result, PCOS leads to irregular menstrual cycles, missed periods and unpredictable ovulation. PCOS is one of the most common causes of infertility in women and people assigned female at birth (AFAB). It can also increase the risk of other health conditions. PCOS is a condition characterised by hormonal imbalances and metabolism problems, which can affect a woman’s overall health and appearance.