Your Private GP and Sexual Health Clinic in Canary Wharf
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome is a common syndrome that affects millions of women in the UK. It is estimated that about 1 in 5 women have Polycystic ovary Syndrome, but half of these wont experience symptoms. As the name suggests the disease affects how the ovaries work and can cause a variety of symptoms.
Usually, once a month ovulation occurs with the release of an egg. These eggs develop in the follicles of the ovaries. Every month several of these follicles will develop but only one egg gets released. In Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, these follicles are replaced by cysts with the result that an egg doesn’t always get released.
FEATURES
- Cysts in the ovaries. Usually around 12 cysts develop
- No ovulation, which means no period
- High levels of male hormones in the body
SYMPTOMS
- Irregular periods or no periods
- Difficulty in falling pregnant
- Excessive hair growth
- Hair thinning
- Acne
- Weight gain
- Depression
Symptoms usually start in the late teens and early twenties and not all women will have all the symptoms
COMPLICATIONS
- Increased risk of type 2 diabetes
- Elevated cholesterol levels
DIAGNOSIS
- Blood test
- Ultrasound Scan of the ovaries
TREATMENT
- There is no cure but symptoms can be managed.
- If you are overweight losing weight through a healthy diet could help reduce symptoms
- Treatments are available for excess hair growth
- Sometimes fertility medication can help with fertility issues
- Metformin
If you are concerned about or just want advice on STI’s, please call: 0203 197 9100 or contact us via email at: contact@drwaynecottrell.com
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