PCOS
Also called: polycystic ovary syndrome
Clinical reviewer: Jacob Moore, MD · Last checked September 24, 2026
What is PCOS?
PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) is a set of symptoms related to a hormonal imbalance. Women with PCOS usually have at least two of three features: irregular or absent ovulation, high androgen levels, or ovarian growths. PCOS is the most common cause of anovulatory infertility, and between 5 percent and 10 percent of women ages 15 to 44 have it.
What are the features of PCOS?
PCOS is a set of symptoms related to a hormonal imbalance, and women with PCOS usually have at least two of three features: absence of ovulation (irregular or no periods), high androgens or signs of them, or growths in one or both ovaries [1]. Possible symptoms include increased hair growth, dark patches of skin, acne, insulin resistance, and irregular menstrual bleeding [1]. PCOS is the most common cause of anovulatory infertility [1]. Between 5 percent and 10 percent of women ages 15 to 44 have PCOS, and risk may be higher with obesity [2].
How is PCOS linked to insulin resistance and weight, and where do GLP-1s fit?
Many women with PCOS have insulin resistance, especially those who have overweight or obesity, and more than half of women with PCOS will have diabetes or prediabetes before age 40 [2]. The Wegovy label does not list PCOS as an indication, so using semaglutide for PCOS is off-label [3]. A 2024 systematic review and meta-analysis of eleven trials found that liraglutide, semaglutide, and orlistat appeared superior to placebo for anthropometric outcomes in PCOS, though the authors called published data on anti-obesity agents in PCOS very limited [4].
Related terms
Sources
- NICHD — About PCOS
- HHS Office on Women's Health — Polycystic ovary syndrome
- WEGOVY (semaglutide) injection, solution; tablet — Full Prescribing Information
- Anti-obesity pharmacological agents for polycystic ovary syndrome, A systematic review and meta-analysis to inform the 2023 international evidence-based guideline
This entry is for education and is not medical advice. Talk with a licensed clinician about your own situation before starting, stopping, or changing any treatment.
