What is a common symptom of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)?

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is characterized by a variety of symptoms, among which signs of hyperandrogenism are quite common. Hyperandrogenism refers to elevated levels of male hormones in the body, which can lead to physical signs such as hirsutism (excessive hair growth in areas typically seen in males), acne, and oily skin. Girls and women with PCOS often have an imbalance in their hormone levels, which contributes to these manifestations. Elevated androgen levels can also affect menstrual regularity, contributing to irregular cycles.

The other options do not align with the typical presentation of PCOS. Decreased insulin sensitivity is often observed in individuals with PCOS, leading to insulin resistance rather than the opposite. Regular ovulatory cycles are typically not seen in PCOS; women with this condition frequently experience irregular periods or anovulation. Lastly, while some women with PCOS may have a normal body weight, many are overweight or obese, making it inaccurate to classify normal body weight as a common symptom linked to this syndrome.