In brief
A common hormonal condition that affects how the ovaries work, with irregular periods, signs of high androgens and effects on metabolism. In May 2026 it was renamed polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS).
- PCOS is one of the most common causes of infertility in females.
- Other long-term risks include high cholesterol, sleep apnoea and pregnancy complications.
- PCOS is a risk factor for insulin resistance and pre-diabetes.
How it works
Symptoms can include irregular or missed periods, excess hair on the face, chest, stomach or back, acne or oily skin, thinning scalp hair, weight gain or difficulty losing weight, dark velvety patches of skin, difficulty conceiving, tiredness and mood changes. The exact cause is unknown, but high levels of androgens and insulin may interfere with ovulation, and it can run in families.
Diagnosis needs at least 2 of irregular or no periods, signs of high androgens, and at least 20 partly formed eggs per ovary on ultrasound. Untreated PCOS can increase the risk of type 2 diabetes and heart disease. Treatment includes a healthy diet, regular exercise, weight loss if needed, medicines and support for emotional concerns.
Connections
7 connections on the map. Select a topic to read its page.
PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) can cause
Acne or oily skin is a symptom of PCOS.
Source: healthdirect Australia, Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)
Scalp hair thinning or baldness can occur with PCOS.
Source: healthdirect Australia, Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)
Weight gain or difficulty losing weight is a symptom of PCOS.
Source: healthdirect Australia, Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)
PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) is linked with
PCOS is a risk factor for insulin resistance and pre-diabetes.
Sources: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIH), Insulin resistance and prediabetes; healthdirect Australia, Pre-diabetes
PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) affects
PCOS is a common hormonal condition that affects how the ovaries work.
Source: healthdirect Australia, Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)
PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) can lead to
Untreated PCOS can increase your risk of type 2 diabetes.
Sources: healthdirect Australia, Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS); healthdirect Australia, Type 2 diabetes
PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) can raise
- Pre-diabetes Supported
PCOS is one of the risk factors for pre-diabetes.
Lab tests
Sources
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Summarised from healthdirect and the NIH. Sources read on 16 October 2026. General education only, not medical advice. Spotted a mistake? Please tell us through the HuBu-Intel contact page.