An illustration of polycystic ovary syndrome, which causes the ovaries to enlarge
Science Photo Library / Alamy
We are finally getting to grips with the genetics of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which could open the door to new treatments.
PCOS, which is thought to affect up to 1 in 5 women, disrupts how ovaries function, resulting in at least two of three features: irregular or no periods; raised levels of male sex hormones, including testosterone; and a build-up of immature eggs that look like cysts in the ovaries. As a result, fertility problems are common with the condition.
