A new study showed that women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) – who have cystic ovaries involving just 1 ovary, rather than both ovaries, have significantly lower rates of menstrual cycle irregularity. This finding was presented  at the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine (AIUM) 2012 Annual Convention. To be diagnosed with PCOS, a woman needs to have 2 out of the following 3 characteristics:

1. Irregular periods

2. Elevated testosterone or DHEA-S which manifest generally with cystic acne and/or hair growth (generally on chin)

3. Enlarged ovaries containing at least 12 follicles each

I see a lot of women with PCOS – diet, exercise, nutrient therapy and herbal medicine are very effective at regulating cycles, promoting weight loss and enhancing fertility. This study is the first of its kind to actually compare unilateral and bilateral PCOS. This is interesting because it provides more information on the clinical manifestations of PCOS- and helps explain why some women with PCOS respond more quickly to therapies.