Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)

What is polycystic ovary syndrome?

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a condition which can affect a woman’s menstrual cycle, fertility, hormones and aspects of her appearance. It can also affect long-term health.

What are polycystic ovaries?

Polycystic ovaries are slightly larger than normal ovaries and have twice the number of follicles (small cysts). Polycystic ovaries are very common affecting 20 in 100 (20%) of women.

What are the symptoms of PCOS?

The symptoms of PCOS can include:
1. irregular periods or no periods at all
2. difficulty becoming pregnant (reduced fertility)
3. having more facial or body hair than usual
4. being overweight, rapid increase in weight, difficulty losing weight
5. oily skin, acne
6 depression and mood swings.

How is PCOS diagnosed?

Women with PCOS often have different signs and symptoms and sometimes these come and go.
A diagnosis is usually made when you have any two of the following:
1. irregular, infrequent periods or no periods
2. more facial or body hair than usual and/or blood tests which show abnormal hormone levels
3. an ultrasound scan which shows polycystic ovaries.

What causes PCOS?

The cause of PCOS is not yet known. PCOS sometimes runs in families. If any of your relatives (mother, aunts, sisters) are affected with PCOS, your own risk of developing PCOS may be increased. The symptoms of PCOS are related to abnormal hormone levels.

What could PCOS mean for my long-term health?

You are at greater risk of developing the following long-term health problems if you have PCOS:
1. Diabetes
2. High blood pressure
3. Cancer: With fewer periods (less than three a year), the lining of the womb can thicken and this may lead to polyps, endometrial cancer in a small number of women.

Is there a cure?

There is no cure for PCOS. Medical treatments aim to manage and reduce the symptoms or consequences of having PCOS.
Many women with PCOS successfully manage their symptoms by eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

What can I do to reduce the health risks?

Have a healthy lifestyle

The main ways to reduce your overall risk of long-term health problems are to:
1. eat a healthy balanced diet. This should include fruit and vegetables. You should decrease sugar, salt, caffeine
2. eat meals regularly especially including breakfast
3. regular exercises (40 minutes walk at least five times a week).

The benefits of losing weight include:
1. more regular periods
2. an increased chance of becoming pregnant
3. reduction in acne and a decrease in excess hair
4. a lower risk of developing diabetes and heart problems
5. a lower risk of cancer of the womb

If you have any further questions, consult your doctor.