Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
What is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder affecting 10–13% of women of reproductive age. It is characterized by three main features: irregular periods (or no periods), high androgen levels (causing acne or excess hair), and polycystic ovaries (many harmless, underdeveloped follicles).
+ What are the symptoms of PCOS?
Symptoms vary significantly from person to person, ranging from mild to severe:
- Irregular Periods: Infrequent, absent, or irregular ovulation (fewer than 9 periods a year or none).
- Hyperandrogenism (High Male Hormones):
- Excessive hair growth (Hirsutism): Often on the face, chest, back, or buttocks.
- Thinning hair: Hair loss from the scalp (alopecia).
- Oily skin or acne: Severe acne or persistent acne.
- Physical Changes: Difficulty losing weight, rapid weight gain, or being overweight.
- Infertility: Difficulty getting pregnant due to lack of ovulation.
- Skin Changes: Darker, thick skin patches (acanthosis nigricans) in body creases, such as the neck, armpits, or groin.
Information and Resources
Kate’s story of living with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is part of a series of stories on living with the condition.
NHS 111 Wales – Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
The NHS 111 Wales website provides an overview of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), the symptoms, who can get it, diagnosis and treatment.
PCOS Challenge
PCOS Challenge provides support for women with PCOS through television and radio programming, educational workshop and online and offline support networks.
Verity
Verity is a registered charity for those with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). It is a patient advocacy group, run by individuals with PCOS (not medically qualified), that aims to raise awareness around the condition.
Additionally, Verity provides a very active discussion board and social media community where those with PCOS can give and receive peer support.
Royal College of Obstetrics and Gynaecologists – PCOS
As well as providing information on the symptoms, causes and diagnosing PCOS, the Royal College of Obstetrics and Gynaecologists website also includes what PCOS could mean for your long-term health and how to reduce long-term health risks.