What is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome? (PCOS)

PCOS

If you have polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), you’re not alone. According to Verity - The UK PCOS Charity, this condition affects 1 in every 8 women in the UK. Despite its prevalence, the condition is often misunderstood and it’s thought that up to 70% of women with the condition are undiagnosed.

What is PCOS?

Polycystic ovary syndrome, also known as PCOS, is a chronic hormonal condition that affects how a woman’s ovaries (the part of the body that produces and releases eggs) function. If you have PCOS, your ovaries create an excess of androgens, a type of male hormone. This causes a hormonal imbalance that can disrupt the way your reproductive system works, leading to irregular or absent periods, unpredictable cycles and other possible symptoms. As a result of this condition, the ovaries can become enlarged and develop multiple fluid-filled sacs, often referred to as follicles. These sacs or follicles are often unable to release an egg, which prevents ovulation.

Symptoms of PCOS

The symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome usually start when people are in their teens or early 20s. However, symptoms can vary from woman to woman and can range from mild to severe.

Symptoms can often include:

Irregular periods - while everyone has a different cycle length, periods are considered to be irregular if the gap between periods is less than 21 days or greater than 35 days.
No periods (amenorrhoea) - having no periods at all may be a sign of PCOS, when not caused by pregnancy, breastfeeding, menopause or another health condition.
Heavy periods - without ovulation, the womb lining can build up too much, leading to heavier bleeding.
Excessive facial or body hair (hirsutism) - this is caused by the higher levels of androgens (male hormones) produced by your ovaries.
Weight gain - PCOS is linked to insulin resistance, which can lead to weight gain.
Hair loss or thinning - caused by elevated levels of androgens.
Acne or oily skin - caused by elevated levels of androgens.
Fertility problems - Some women with PCOS find it difficult to get pregnant, usually because their ovaries do not release an egg every month (ovulation).

Impact on general health

Living with PCOS can affect more than just your physical health - it’s also not uncommon to experience low mood or feel overwhelmed at times. Some people may even feel depressed. This is because the symptoms of PCOS can have a negative impact on your self-esteem and confidence. If you’re feeling this way, you’re not alone. Speaking to your GP can be a good place to start if you need help.

You may have, or have a higher risk of developing:

Type 2 diabetes
High blood pressure
High cholesterol
Sleep apnoea - this is when your breathing stops and starts while you sleep.

Managing symptoms

While polycystic ovary syndrome has no cure, its symptoms can be controlled.

If you’re living with PCOS, you might find that managing your weight is particularly challenging. However, for some people, even a small reduction in weight (around 5%) may help improve symptoms if they’re overweight. If this feels like an achievable goal for you, a healthcare professional can help you find an approach that works best for your body and lifestyle.

Your doctor may also suggest medications to help with symptoms like acne and excess hair growth. The contraceptive pill might be recommended to help regulate your menstrual cycle, and if you're trying to conceive, medicine to induce ovulation could be considered.

Taking Evana® or Ultravana® with PCOS

Conditions such as PCOS can lead to irregular or heavy periods. Evana® contains tranexamic acid, which can help to break the cycle of heavy, disruptive periods. It should be noted that Evana® isn’t suitable if you have irregular periods, but however other treatments, including the contraceptive pill, may already be in use or more appropriate. If you are taking the contraceptive pill, you must not take Evana. Always check with a healthcare professional to make sure Evana® is right for you. If you have been diagnosed with PCOS, you should speak with your pharmacist or a doctor before taking Evana.

Ultravana® is indicated for menstrual pain; those without periods may not experience this symptom. If you are experiencing painful periods, it is important to tell the pharmacist if you have PCOS or are trying to conceive. The pharmacist can discuss this with you and ensure that you receive the appropriate advice and a treatment that is suitable for you.