How common are polycystic ovaries in normal women and what is their significance for the fertility of the population

摘要: OBJECTIVE We wished to determine the prevalence of polycystic ovaries (PCO) and relate morphological appearance fertility. DESIGN sent postal invitations a random sample women born in years 1952–1969 from list single Group Practice attend for reproductive history questionnaire, examination, ultrasound scan hormone measurements within 5 days onset menstruation. SUBJECTS Of 1065 potentially available study, 571 (54%) replied whom 353 (62%) agreed participate. One hundred ninety (18%) completed 163 were deferred (57 because current or very recent pregnancy, 106 inconvenience at time approached), 18 additional volunteered. MEASUREMENTS Prevalence ovaries, ovarian size morphology, menstrual history, features androgen excess, fertility status, serum levels. RESULTS The PCO was 22% (41/190). non-PCO similar with respect age, body mass index, oral contraceptive pill (OCP) usage, acne, pattern but hirsutism (Ferrlman Gallwey score > 7) significantly (P= 0.006) more frequent among women. Proven prior same (56%) (64%) an equal proportion each group had not yet tested their fertility. those previously proven fertility, self-perceived difficulty conception occurred proportions without PCO. Unresolved primary secondary infertility (2.5–4%) both groups. Ovarian volume (each ovary separately) larger irrespective OCP usage. Serum levels oestradiol FSH women, LH distributed around higher median Median testosterone androstenedione women. CONCLUSIONS morphology is high but, this accompanied by minimal clinical manifestations apparently no deleterious effects on earlier An isolated finding may be normal variation should necessarily imply altered potential.