Polycystic ovarian syndrome: is community care appropriate?

In recent years the complexities and heterogeneity of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) have been recognised. Most PCOS sufferers with amenorrhoea, menstrual dysfunction, hirsutism, acne and infertility can be evaluated and safely managed in primary care. It is prudent to remember that all women with PCOS are at risk of insulin resistance and the associated abnormalities of the insulin resistance syndrome--dyslipidaemia, hypertension, coronary artery disease and diabetes mellitus.