Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can rule the lives of sufferers. As many as one in ten women may suffer from this condition. Yet diagnosis can be difficult and treatments vary.

All women with PCOS have polcystic ovaries. These are enlarged ovaries containing many small cysts (usually no bigger than 8 millimetres each). They develop as a result of an imbalance in the hormones, which regulate the menstrual cycle. The good news is that the cysts do not require surgical removal nor do they lead to ovarian cancer.

One fifth of women have polcystic ovaries. Half of these suffer no symptoms and do not have PCOS. However, half develop other symptoms and are said to have polycystic ovary syndrome.

PCOS has a wide range of symptoms, which is why diagnosis can be difficult. Sufferers often have irregular periods, or indeed no menstrual bleeding, infertility and recurrent miscarriage. Other symptoms can include increased hair growth, acne and excessive weight gain. Recent research has also shown that those with PCOS often suffer from insulin resistance and are more likely to develop non-insulin dependent diabetes.

If you think that you suffer from PCOS it is important to seek advice from your family doctor. To make a diagnosis, one or two blood tests may need to be made to measure the hormone levels in the body. Ultrasound may also be used to see if there are cysts on the ovaries.

Treatment depends on the severity of the symptoms. Generally, drugs can be taken to rebalance the hormones so that ovulation and menstruation are normalized. Combined contraceptive pills are often prescribed or alternatively progesterone only pills. It is helpful to experiment and find the most suitable.

For PCOS sufferers who are experiencing difficulty in getting pregnant there are a number of fertility treatments available. These generally help to stimulate ovulation. A good diet and exercise are also critical for sufferers. In particular, for women who are overweight, weight loss is a priority. This can reduce the risk of diabetes and may help regulate periods and improve fertility. Unfortunately the hormonal imbalance of PCOS can make losing weight particularly difficult. It is, therefore, well worth consulting a supportive nutritionist who understands about the syndrome.

Sufferers have reported success with alternative and complementary therapies. Herbal remedies such as Agnus Castus can be effective. Equally some women have found acupuncture to be helpful in treating the hormonal disturbance which underlies this condition. Others say that nutritional therapy and homeopathy reduce symptoms. Whichever therapy you decide upon it is worth taking the time to find a good therapist. Personal recommendation is generally reliable, otherwise the relevant professional body should be able to help. Ideally the therapist should have knowledge and experience of this syndrome.

If you suffer from polycystic ovary syndrome keep yourself well informed about the options. It might be that mainstream treatments would be the way forward. Equally, life style changes or alternative therapies could be the best option. Only you can decide.

For further information, please visit the Verity (PCOS Self Help Group) web site.

Back to Top

Skin Deep Beauty Clinic
Lodge Avenue, Elstree, Herts WD6 3NA
Tel 020 8236 0429 • E-mail
Click here for local map

Site design and development by Control B