New PCOS guidance for patients

The RCOG have this week released new patient information on Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a condition that can often lead to fertility problems.  The guidance especially emphasises the role that health and lifestyle changes can have in managing the condition.

Cath Broderick, Chair of the RCOG Women’s Network said: “Although there is no ‘cure’ as such, for a woman with PCOS losing a small amount of weight can make a big difference to their symptoms and health. It decreases the risk of insulin resistance and diabetes, reduces risk of heart problems and cancer of the womb, improves problems with acne and excess hair, and increases the chance of becoming pregnant.”

They have also produced a very helpful “10 things you need to know about PCOS” list:

1.Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is very common, though estimates of how many women have PCOS vary widely, from 2 in 100 women up to as many as 26 in 100 women

2. Having polycystic ovaries does not necessarily mean that you have PCOS. Many women with polycystic ovaries have no symptoms and no problems with fertility

3. The cause of PCOS is unknown – but it can run in families

4. The symptoms of PCOS vary from mild to severe – some women with PCOS can still become pregnant

5. Symptoms of PCOS are irregular periods or no periods at all, an increase in facial or body hair, a loss of hair on the head, oily skin, acne, being overweight, and difficulty in becoming pregnant

6. PCOS can affect long term health – increasing the risk of insulin resistance and diabetes, high blood pressure (which can lead to problems with the heart), endometrium (lining of the womb) cancer, snoring, fatigue and sleepiness during the day, depression and mood swings.

7. Women with PCOS should be monitored for diabetes, cancer of the womb, high blood pressure, and depression and other psychological problems

8. Symptoms and the long term effects of PCOS can be managed by eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle

9. Medication to manage the symptoms and consequences of PCOS have not been shown to be any more effective than healthy lifestyle changes

10. There is help out there – talk to your practice nurse, doctor or gynaecologist, or to support groups such as Verity (www.verity-pcos.org.uk)

To view the guidelines in full see here

For more information see RCOG report here