Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder that affects millions of women throughout the world. The cause of PCOS is unknown. It is common among women of reproductive age. Women suffering from PCOS may have infrequent, irregular or prolonged menstrual periods. Their ovaries may develop numerous small cysts, which are follicles filled with fluid inside them. These follicles are not released during ovulation. Not all women with PCOS have cysts so the term might be misleading. Signs and symptoms of PCOS often develop around the time that women began to menstruate but they can occur later in a women’s life. Other symptoms associated with PCOS include hair loss, facial hair, acne, and weight gain. Insulin resistance and heart disease are also associated with this condition.