PCOS or polycystic ovarian syndrome is a condition that affects how the ovaries work and it impacts around 1 in 10 women in the UK. However, it is still a condition that many women find difficult to get support for.
We are dedicated to changing the conversation around fertility, and making it more inclusive, proactive, and supportive – and our guides are based on these principles. After reading (or listening! All our guides are available in audio too!) all the information, we believe you’ll feel less overwhelmed and more empowered in dealing with your PCOS.
What is PCOS?
There are 3 key features of PCOS: polycystic ovaries, irregular or lack of ovulation, and elevated levels of testosterone. You only need 2 out of 3 of the criteria to be diagnosed with PCOS. ‘Polycystic ovaries’ describes the way your ovaries look like on an ultrasound scan. Ovaries have little cysts on them – from which eggs are ultimately released. However, ovaries appearing ‘polycystic’ just means that they have a few more of these little cysts (and are generally a little larger overall) than average. However, just because you have polycystic ovaries does not mean you have PCOS.
There is a strong family hereditary history in PCOS. If you have PCOS is it likely your mother or sisters are suffering from it too or there is a longstanding family history of diabetes.
How do I know if I have PCOS?
Some women might not know they have PCOS until they start trying to conceive as they are asymptomatic and their main symptom is difficulty conceiving. For other women, the symptoms of PCOS present themselves earlier. But we know that all women are unique so how PCOS presents in one woman might not be the same for another. Here are the common PCOS symptoms:
- Irregular or no periods
- Fertility issues
- Excessive hair growth
- Weight gain
- Thinning hair
- Oily or acne-prone skin
Sadly, there is still not a lot known about the cause of PCOS. There are several theories and potential causes that have been debated, but no certain reason has been ascertained. Polycystic ovarian syndrome is related to an imbalance of hormones found in the body, such as insulin.
Infertility
As one of the main features of polycystic ovarian syndrome is the lack of regular ovulation, it can have an effect on fertility. This makes conception a little trickier and it can take longer for women to get pregnant. Good diet, healthy lifestyle and regular exercise has been linked to improving fertility chances.
Women with PCOS are encouraged to start trying to conceive earlier than others as it can take them longer to get pregnant. For women with very infrequent periods or above 35 years old, is it advised to explore other assisted fertility options.
If this is something you’re contemplating, have a look at our assisted fertility blog.
How will the Parla guide help me on my fertility journey?
PCOS is a common condition a large number of women suffer from. A worry for most women is infertility and whether they will be able to get pregnant. Depending on your age, you can plan for your future and improve your chances of conception later on in life. Currently, there is no cure for PCOS but there are many treatments and fertility options available to help manage the condition. We’ll explore further these topics in our blog:
More questions our guide will answer:
- What treatments are available?
- Can lifestyle changes improve my symptoms?
- Is nutrition important when it comes to living with PCOS?
- How and when to talk to a doctor?
- Is there support available for PCOS?
- What to do after getting a PCOS diagnosis?
At Parla, we are committed to empowering you with the information needed to make proactive decisions about your fertility journey. Our guides and expert-led community are here to support you and at every step of your journey. Learn about your body, understand your options and take control of your fertility.
This post is here to provide educational information only. It does not provide medical advice, and does not diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Parla does not replace your relationship with any general practitioner or healthcare provider. Always seek the advice of your doctor or qualified health provider with any questions you may have about a medical condition or diagnosis or treatment.
