Best Practices for Identifying and Supporting Patients who Present with PCOS

Nurs Clin North Am. 2024 Dec;59(4):563-575. doi: 10.1016/j.cnur.2024.08.007. Epub 2024 Sep 14.

Abstract

Polycystic ovary syndrome (POCS) represents the most common endocrinopathy among reproductive aged women. The prevalence is between 4% and 20% and the etiology is complex. Clinical characteristics encompass reproductive, metabolic, and psychologic features making the diagnosis and management challenging. PCOS often starts during adolescence. Early identification, education, and risk mitigating treatment can reduce impacts to patient's physical and mental health across their lifespan and improve quality-of-life.

Keywords: Diagnosis; Hyperandrogenism; Insulin resistance; Menstrual irregularities; Polycystic ovary syndrome; Screening; Treatment.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome* / complications
  • Practice Guidelines as Topic
  • Quality of Life / psychology