Polycystic ovarian morphology (PCOM) describes an ultrasound appearance where the ovaries contain a high number of small follicles, often with increased ovarian volume. It is one of three features used, alongside irregular ovulation and clinical or blood signs of raised androgens, to diagnose polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Having PCOM on a scan alone does not mean a woman has PCOS or is infertile; many women with this appearance ovulate normally and conceive without difficulty. It becomes clinically significant mainly when combined with irregular periods or other PCOS features, and is also linked to a higher risk of ovarian hyperstimulation during fertility treatment.
Also known as: PCOM, polycystic ovaries appearance
Related India guides
Sources
- ICMR Standard Treatment Workflows (icmr.gov.in/standard-treatment-workflows-stws)
- Federation of Obstetric and Gynaecological Societies of India (fogsi.org)
Last reviewed: 9 September 2026. Written by the Antega Editorial Team. General information only — always follow the advice of your own clinic, doctor or pharmacist.