PCOS is the acronym commonly used for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. In the past, the condition was also referred to as Stein-Leventhal Syndrome.1 PCOS is a condition that is thought to affect around 1 in 52 or possibly 1 in 101 women within the reproductive age band in the UK. It affects how the ovaries function and can cause pain, fertility issues and other concerns.2
Polycystic means ‘many cysts’ and sufferers of PCOS will usually have at least 12 cysts present on their ovaries. The hormone production balance is altered, causing an increase in production of the male hormone, testosterone, which can result in visible symptoms such as excessive body and/or facial hair. PCOS also hinders menstrual cycles, causing irregular periods or a complete lack of ovulation.1
It is not clear what causes PCOS but there are a few possibilities:2,1
PCOS can result in numerous and varied symptoms and women with PCOS may experience one or many of these symptoms which include:1,3
Long term problems with PCOS can also be linked to high cholesterol and type 2 diabetes.1
However, some women have ovaries that are polycystic without the typical symptoms of PCOS and some women with PCOS do not have multiple cysts in the ovary1 so it can be difficult to diagnose in some women.
Your doctor may offer to screen for impaired glucose tolerance, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular risk factors to ensure that you don’t have these conditions.5
The testing process may include blood tests to check hormone levels such as a test to measure the male hormone testosterone and luteinising hormone (LH), a physical examination and/or a pelvic ultrasound.2
There are many similarities in the symptoms of PCOS and hypothyroidism. Whilst a direct connection has not been confirmed, the parallels in the symptoms can cause confusion when it comes to diagnosis. Ovaries that appear to be ‘polycystic’ can be symptomatic of hypothyroidism and therefore thyroid disorders should be ruled out before testing for PCOS.4
Lifestyle changes such as an improved diet and maintaining a healthy weight can help ease the symptoms of PCOS.2, 5 Your GP may refer you to a gynaecological specialist for the management and treatment of this condition.5
In certain cases, medication may be prescribed by your GP or specialist to alleviate the signs of excess hair growth and/or acne, manage pain or regulate periods.2
Treatment is often prescribed to overcome fertility issues as well as to manage other symptoms.
Medications may include Eflornithine cream,6 Clomiphene (Clomifene),7 Letrozole (Femara)6 or Glucophage (Metformin)6. These medications are generally used to stimulate the ovaries. The possible side-effects of these medications should be discussed with your medical professional.
In extreme cases, surgery such as Laparoscopic Ovarian Drilling may be required. This is a minimally invasive procedure involving small incisions in the abdomen. During this procedure heat or a laser is used to destroy the cysts on the ovaries that are causing the symptoms.6
There isn’t a cure for PCOS but with multiple treatment options, symptoms can usually be managed.
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Date updated: 20.01.22 (V1.3)
Review date: 25.03.22
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