Relative Contributions of Predictors of Hyperandrogenism in Older vs. Young Women With PCOS
Trial Parameters
Brief Summary
The objective of the study is to determine the relative contributions of four established predictors of hyperandrogenism (luteinizing hormone \[LH\] secretion, ovarian response to recombinant human chorionic gonadotropin \[r-hCG\] administration, adrenal response to adrenocorticotropic hormone \[ACTH\] administration, and hyperinsulinemia) in older vs. young women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) in a cross-sectional, physiological study. The investigators hypothesize that hyperinsulinemia is a stronger independent predictor of free testosterone (T) in older reproductive aged (vs. young) women with PCOS.
Eligibility Criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Women with PCOS aged 20-30 years and 40-49 years. Subject is considered to have PCOS if she has current or verifiable history of: a) clinical and/or biochemical evidence of hyperandrogenism plus b) oligomenorrhea (average menstrual cycle length \>45 days or fewer than 9 menses/year) or irregular menstruation (substantially inconsistent menstrual cycle length). Note: For subjects aged 40-49 years, they will be allowed to participate if they have fewer than 10 menses/year (average menstrual cycle length \>35 days) as long as they have a compelling past history of oligomenorrhea or irregular menstruation. * Screening safety labs within normal reference ranges although mild abnormalities that are common in obesity and/or hyperandrogenism will not be grounds for exclusion (see exclusion criteria). * Subjects must be willing and able to provide written informed consent. * Willingness to strictly avoid pregnancy (using non-hormonal methods) during the time of the study *