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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
More seriously, an irregular menstrual cycle could be a sign of a growth, such as a polyp, a reproductive health condition like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or adenomyosis, or a thyroid disorder. Julia Ries, SELF, 24 Feb. 2025 Gary explained that disruptions in the endocrine system can trigger inflammation, leading to conditions like insulin resistance, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and autoimmune disorders, which are increasingly linked to cancer. Josh Hammer, Newsweek, 15 Feb. 2025 Mosier also said the policy affects intersex women and women who practice hormone therapy for medical reasons, such as to treat polycystic ovary syndrome. Russell Leung, CNBC, 6 Feb. 2025 Besides preventing pregnancy, hormonal birth control can offer different health benefits, such as lightening periods, easing cramps and treating polycystic ovary syndrome. Samantha Putterman, Austin American-Statesman, 26 Feb. 2024 See All Example Sentences for polycystic ovary syndrome

Word History

First Known Use

1956, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of polycystic ovary syndrome was in 1956

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Cite this Entry

“Polycystic ovary syndrome.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/polycystic%20ovary%20syndrome. Accessed 27 Feb. 2025.

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

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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