Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a metabolic condition that affects the ovaries and their hormone production. There are typically 3 major features that are used to diagnose PCOS; these are:

• Irregular periods – the ovaries stop regular ovulation, leading to irregular periods.
• Excess androgen – a male hormone that we all produce, but to excess in the case of someone suffering from PCOS. This can lead to excessive facial or body hair.
• Polycystic ovaries – where the ovaries contain fluid filled follicles around the eggs (these are not cysts).

If a sufferer has 2 out of 3 of these, they may be diagnosed as having PCOS, as opposed to polycystic ovaries (PCO).

Did you know…

1. There are a range of standard front line treatment options for PCOS, as well as recommendations for lifestyle changes which can help to alleviate the symptoms, such as weight loss and exercise.
2. Many people look at alternative or natural treatment options for PCOS; long term use of Metformin has shown success in treating the condition as it improves the menstrual cycle and reduces luteinizing hormone, testosterone and BMI.
3. PCOS is on of the most common endocrine disorders in the world, affecting approx. 6-10% of women worldwide.