A leading cause of infertility, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a syndrome in which the ovaries - the organs that produce the eggs in the female reproductive system - overproduce male hormones. The ovaries are frequently enlarged and have cysts, hence the name of the syndrome. Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that form on the ovaries when the follicles (sacs that contain the egg) mature but do not release the egg into the fallopian tube during the menstrual cycle.

An estimated five to 10 percent of women of childbearing age have PCOS. At least one-third of women have some symptoms of the disorder, which is most probably a group of disorders rather than a single condition. Some women have all of the symptoms and signs, while others have very few. In fact, some women do not have cysts on the ovaries.

The classic signs of PCOS are obesity, excessive facial hair growth and irregular periods. Also common is the presence of insulin resistance, where the body's cells no longer respond normally to insulin. Insulin is the hormone that facilitates transport of glucose (sugar) from the bloodstream into the cells, where it is needed for energy. Insulin resistance predisposes to the development of type 2 diabetes.

To overcome insulin resistance, the pancreas secretes more insulin, and many of the symptoms of PCOS result from excess levels of this hormone in the blood. For example, too much insulin causes the ovaries to manufacture abnormally high levels of the male hormone testosterone, which in turn contributes to irregular menstruation, the formation of ovarian cysts, excess facial hair, acne and male-pattern hair thinning. In addition, the excess male hormones lead to storage of excess body fat in the abdomen, which further aggravates insulin resistance, thereby worsening the symptoms of PCOS.

Because there is no cure for PCOS, medical management is needed to prevent further problems. Medications are available to control the many symptoms of PCOS. These may include progestins and birth control pills to control menstruation and a drug called spironolactone to control hair growth. Insulin-sensitizing medications can also be taken to induce a menstrual period, restore normal cycles and lessen the impact of excess insulin and the future risk of diabetes.

Eating a balanced diet low in carbohydrates and maintaining a healthy weight can help lessen the symptoms of PCOS, as well. Regular exercise helps weight loss, increases the sensitivity of cells to insulin, and raises HDL or "good" cholesterol levels.

Your friend can find out more about PCOS by contacting the National Women's Health Information Center (800-994-9662) or the following organizations: American Medical Association, www.ama-assn.org; American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, www.acog.org; Hormone Foundation, www.hormone.org; International Council on Infertility Information Dissemination, www.inciid.org; Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome Association,www.pcosupport.org; or PCOS Doctors at www.pcos-doctors.com.