Physicians are often confused about the best methods for identification and treatment of PCOS in adolescents, as well as the most appropriate, evidence-based treatments for fertility enhancement. In addition, there is a relative lack of understanding of the genetic correlates of PCOS in family members. This lack of knowledge results in ineffective therapies (e.g., metformin) being given for ovulation induction, delayed diagnosis of PCOS in adolescence with resulting increased hyperandrogenic symptoms, and a lack of an appropriately focused approach to family members of women with PCOS who may well visit the same physician.

This course is aimed at physicians, nurses and nurse practitioners who care for women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Topics to be covered include the genetic basis for PCOS and its phenotypic expression in relatives; the Rotterdam and NIH criteria, and their differences and their relative effectiveness in diagnosing PCOS; and the Barker hypothesis and its ramifications. Participants will be better equipped to provide the most appropriate care, understand and apply the appropriate criteria in order to facilitate diagnosis, and provide the best possible care for pregnant women with PCOS, thus ensuring the health of the next generation of offspring of PCOS women.


LEARNING OBJECTIVES

At the conclusion of this course, participants should be able to:
1. Describe the potential prenatal (programming) and genetic underpinnings of PCOS.
2. Detect PCOS in childhood and adolescence.
3. Define PCOS in clinical practice.
4. Develop short- and long-term treatment strategies for women with PCOS of varying phenotypes.

To purchase a downloadable PDF of the PG course syllabus or syllabi, click here.