What is the most common cause of hirsutism and menstrual irregularities in women under 50 years of age?

Polycystic ovaries, often associated with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), represent the most prevalent cause of hirsutism and menstrual irregularities in women under 50 years of age. PCOS is a hormonal disorder that leads to a variety of symptoms due to imbalances in the levels of estrogen, progesterone, and androgens.

Women with PCOS often experience an excess of androgens, which can result in unwanted hair growth (hirsutism), acne, and anovulation. Additionally, menstrual irregularities occur because the hormonal imbalance can disrupt the normal ovulatory cycle. The presence of numerous cysts on the ovaries, often detected via ultrasound, is a hallmark of this condition.

While factors such as adrenal tumors and congenital adrenal hyperplasia can lead to similar symptoms, they are significantly less common in comparison to PCOS. Obesity can exacerbate symptoms in women with PCOS but is not considered a primary cause of hirsutism or menstrual irregularities. Thus, the association of PCOS with both hirsutism and menstrual irregularities solidifies its position as the most common cause in this demographic.