Prevalence of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome Among Women Attending Gynaecology Clinic at Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital, Edo State

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrine disorder among women of reproductive age, contributing to infertility, menstrual irregularity, metabolic syndrome, and long-term cardiovascular risk, yet its prevalence in South South Nigerian gynaecological clinic populations is poorly documented. This study determines the prevalence of PCOS among women attending the gynaecology clinic at Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital, Edo State, South South Nigeria. A cross-sectional study enrolled 200 women of reproductive age (15 to 45 years) presenting with menstrual irregularity, hirsutism, infertility, or acne over six months. PCOS was diagnosed using the Rotterdam criteria, requiring two of three features: oligoanovulation, clinical or biochemical hyperandrogenism, and polycystic ovarian morphology on ultrasound. Biochemical investigations included serum LH, FSH, testosterone, and fasting insulin. PCOS prevalence was 24 percent of the study population. Oligomenorrhoea (82 percent) and polycystic ovarian morphology on ultrasound (78 percent) were the dominant diagnostic features. Insulin resistance indicators were present in 44 percent of PCOS cases. Obesity (BMI above 30 kg/m2) was documented in 38 percent of PCOS-positive women. The study establishes a substantial PCOS burden at Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital and recommends structured PCOS screening protocols, lifestyle modification counselling, and linkage with endocrinology and fertility services for affected women. Keywords: polycystic ovarian syndrome, PCOS, Rotterdam criteria, Edo State, gynaecology clinic