The Long-Term Health Consequences of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrine disorder in women of reproductive age. It has been known for some time as a both a reproductive and a metabolic disorder but more recently, mainly as a result of large longitudinal population-based studies, is becoming recognized as a complex multisystem disorder with comorbidities and long-term health implications. PCOS is associated not only with reproductive and metabolic features but also with cardiovascular abnormalities, psychological illness and endometrial cancer. Data are also emerging about possible long-term health consequences for the offspring of women with PCOS. Their children are more likely to be obese with metabolic disorders and are more likely to develop neurodevelopmental or psychiatric disorders. In this chapter, the long-term health consequences of PCOS for women and their offspring are described, together with a discussion on how they should best be managed.