Introduction: PCOS is the most common endocrinopathy affecting 6–20 % of female reproductive population. The diagnosis of PCOS requires atleast two of the following criteria : oligo/amennorrhea, clinical hyperandrogenism and morphology of polycystic ovaries. The mainstay of treating PCOS includes weight loss of more than 5 –7.5 % of previous weight and lifestyle modifications which helps in restoring the hormonal milieu to some extent. Treatment options for infertility include clomiphene, laparoscopic ovarian drilling, gonadotropins, and assisted reproductive technology.

Methods: The study was conducted to assess the efficacy of structured teaching programme on the knowledge regarding polycystic ovarian syndrome among girls studying in a senior secondary classes of a selected school in an urban community. The study design adopted was pre experimental one group pre–test and post–test design. Structured questionnaire was used to collect data from the participants which included both demographic proforma and structured knowledge questionnaire on PCOS.

Results: After the structured teaching programme majority (60%) of students had very good knowledge while average knowledge was observed only in 2% of students. None of the student had poor knowledge after the administration of structured teaching programme. The mean post–test score (15.9 ± 2.9) was significantly higher than the overall mean pre–test score (5.98 ± 2.66). This shows a significant difference between pre–test and post–test knowledge (Z = 6.17; p < 0.001). No significant association was found between the level of knowledge and demographic variables except the educational stream of subjects that is commerce, science with maths/ biology, arts.

Conclusion and recommendations: Based on the results of the present study it can be concluded that before administration of structured teaching programme, most of the students had poor (52%) knowledge regard PCOS. After the structured teaching programme there was an enhancement of knowledge score on PCOS. So it can be concluded that structured teaching programme is effective in improving the knowledge of students. Based on the results the study recommended that more educative sessions regarding PCOS should be conducted in different settings comprising women of reproductive age group. Also it should be included along with sex education and reproductive health sessions at school level & ARSH clinics