300 Longwood Avenue Boston, MA 02115 (617) 355-6000 My Child Has: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) Programs related to this topic Gynecology Program   Reproductive Endocrine Practice   Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a mild hormone imbalance that can cause irregular periods, unwanted hair growth, and acne. It can be mild or severe. This is a common condition that begins during the teenage years in women. In fact, almost one out of fifteen women has PCOS. While PCOS cannot be cured, it can be treated. There are excellent long-term medications to help manage irregular periods, hair growth, and acne. For more information go to the Center for Young Women's Health website. The information on this website should not be taken as medical advice, which can only be given to you by your personal health care professional. Copyright © Children's Hospital Boston. All rights reserved.