In one sentence
PCOS, the polyzystische Ovarialsyndrom, is one of the most common hormonal conditions in women of childbearing age, affecting roughly 1 in 10. Typical signs are irregular periods, raised male hormones and many small follicles on ultrasound.
PCOS stands for polyzystisches Ovarialsyndrom. It is one of the most common hormonal conditions in women of childbearing age. Roughly 1 in 10 women are affected, and many of them do not know they have it.
Doctors look for three typical signs. First, periods that come rarely, irregularly or not at all. Second, signs of raised male hormones, either in the blood or visible as acne, increased body hair or hair loss on the head. Third, many small follicles on the ovaries in an ultrasound, the "cysts" that give the syndrome its name. When two of the three signs are present and other causes are ruled out, the diagnosis is usually made.
Blood values play a real role here. Hormone values help show the pattern, and because PCOS is often linked with how the body handles insulin, sugar and metabolism values are usually checked too. That link also explains why weight, energy and skin often change together with the cycle.
PCOS is a condition to manage, not a verdict, and treatment depends on what bothers you most and whether children are planned. The right first step is a gynaecologist. In this glossary, the Nüchternblutabnahme explains why sugar values need a fasting draw, and the Wechseljahre entry covers the other big hormonal transition.
This glossary entry is general information, not medical advice, and it is not intended to diagnose, treat or rule out any condition. Discuss your own results with a clinician who knows your history.
