Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal condition affecting approximately 2 in 10 women. It occurs when the ovaries contain more developing follicles than normal, leading to a hormonal imbalance.
PCOS can run in families and presents a range of symptoms that impact both physical and emotional well-being. While PCOS cannot be cured, it can be managed effectively to reduce symptoms and minimise the risk of long-term health issues.
The symptoms of PCOS vary from woman to woman, but common signs include:
PCOS is also linked to long-term health risks, including:
Early diagnosis and proactive management are key to reducing these risks and improving overall quality of life.
For women not planning a family, treatments focus on symptom management and reducing long-term health risks:
For women trying to conceive, treatments aim to support ovulation and improve fertility:
Women with PCOS may experience:
Proactive care and tailored treatment plans can help manage these risks and support a healthy pregnancy.
We provide comprehensive care for women living with PCOS.
Under the guidance of Dr. Orla Conlon and her expert team, you’ll receive a personalised plan that addresses your symptoms, supports your fertility goals, and reduces your long-term health risks.
We believe in empowering you with knowledge, compassion, and the tools to take control of your health.
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a complex condition, and its exact cause is not fully understood. It is thought to result from a combination of genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors. If you have a family history of PCOS, you may have a higher risk of developing it.
Hormonal imbalances, particularly excess androgens (male hormones that women also produce), play a significant role. These imbalances can disrupt ovulation, leading to irregular periods and difficulty conceiving. Insulin resistance is another key factor. When the body’s cells don’t respond effectively to insulin, it can lead to higher insulin levels, which, in turn, stimulate the ovaries to produce more androgens.
Understanding the root causes of PCOS helps guide effective treatment, whether through hormonal regulation, lifestyle changes, or a combination of approaches.
PCOS is a lifelong condition, and while it cannot be cured, its symptoms and associated health risks can be effectively managed. With the right treatment plan, many women reduce or even eliminate symptoms, achieve regular menstrual cycles, and minimise long-term risks such as diabetes or heart disease.
Management typically involves a combination of lifestyle changes, such as adopting a healthy diet and regular exercise, and medical treatments tailored to your specific symptoms. It’s important to work with a healthcare provider who understands PCOS and can create a plan that evolves as your needs change over time.
PCOS is one of the most common causes of infertility due to its impact on ovulation. Irregular or absent ovulation means that eggs are not released regularly, making conception more difficult. However, many women with PCOS are able to conceive with the right support.
Treatments for fertility in PCOS may include medications like Clomiphene to stimulate ovulation, or Metformin to address insulin resistance and regulate the menstrual cycle. Lifestyle changes, such as achieving a healthy weight, can also significantly improve fertility outcomes. For women who do not respond to initial treatments, options such as ovarian drilling (a surgical procedure) or assisted reproductive technologies like IVF may be considered.
It’s important to remember that every fertility journey is unique, and our team is here to guide you through the options with care and expertise.
Weight management can be an important part of managing PCOS symptoms and reducing the risk of long-term health complications, but it’s crucial to approach this with compassion and understanding. PCOS itself can make losing weight more difficult due to hormonal imbalances and insulin resistance, and we recognise how frustrating it can be to hear advice about weight when it feels like your body is working against you.
Weight management isn’t about blame or a one-size-fits-all solution—it’s about finding sustainable ways to feel healthier and improve your well-being. Even small, gradual changes, such as losing 5–10% of your body weight, can have a significant impact on regulating your menstrual cycle, reducing androgen levels, and improving symptoms like acne or excessive hair growth. But it’s not just about the numbers on a scale. It’s about creating a lifestyle that supports your health goals and gives you back a sense of control.
At Marble Arch Health, we provide personalised, non-judgmental support to help you navigate these challenges. This might include working with a dietitian to develop a nutrition plan that balances your blood sugar levels or exploring gentle, enjoyable ways to move your body. We focus on progress, not perfection, and we’re here to empower you every step of the way.
Yes, PCOS can increase the risk of certain complications during pregnancy, including:
However, with proactive management and close monitoring, most women with PCOS go on to have healthy pregnancies. Pre-pregnancy counselling and early prenatal care are essential. By addressing factors like weight management, blood sugar control, and ovulation health before conception, you can reduce your risks and prepare for a smoother pregnancy journey.
Yes, PCOS symptoms can vary throughout a woman’s life. For example, irregular periods may become less of an issue as you approach menopause, but other symptoms, such as metabolic concerns like weight gain or insulin resistance, may become more pronounced.
Additionally, changes in weight, stress levels, or hormonal factors can influence the severity of your symptoms. This is why PCOS management isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider are important to adjust your treatment plan as your needs evolve over time.
PMS doesn’t have to control your life. With the right diagnosis and personalised care, you can find relief and restore balance. Let Dr. Orla Conlon and the team at Marble Arch Health guide you to a better, more manageable cycle.