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Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common hormonal conditions affecting women of reproductive age.

At Olika, a Canberra-based women’s health clinic, our specialist team is committed to providing comprehensive, personalised care for those living with PCOS.

PCOS is a complex condition that affects how the ovaries function. It can have a wide range of symptoms and varies greatly between individuals. Early diagnosis and a tailored treatment plan can greatly improve symptoms and long-term health outcomes.

What is PCOS?

PCOS is a hormonal disorder characterised by a combination of symptoms, including irregular or absent menstrual periods, excess levels of androgens (male hormones), and polycystic ovaries identified on ultrasound.

Despite the name, not all women with PCOS have ovarian cysts. The term “polycystic” refers to multiple immature follicles or egg sacs that may be seen on the ovaries via ultrasound.

The exact cause of PCOS is not known, but several factors appear to play a role:

  • Genetics: PCOS tends to run in families.
  • Insulin resistance: Many women with PCOS have insulin resistance, which contributes to weight gain and difficulty regulating blood sugar.
  • Hormonal imbalance: Elevated levels of androgens interfere with ovulation.

Risk factors include a family history of PCOS, obesity, and sedentary lifestyle.

PCOS can manifest in a variety of ways, which may include:

  • Irregular, infrequent, or absent periods
  • Difficulty getting pregnant (due to lack of ovulation)
  • Excess facial and body hair (hirsutism)
  • Acne, particularly on the face, chest, or back
  • Thinning hair on the scalp
  • Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
  • Darkened skin in body folds (acanthosis nigricans)

These symptoms can significantly affect a woman’s physical and emotional wellbeing, making a supportive and informed care approach essential.

There is no single test to diagnose PCOS. A diagnosis is usually made based on a combination of:

  • Medical history and symptom review
  • Physical examination, including checking for signs of excess hair growth or acne
  • Blood tests to check hormone levels, glucose, and cholesterol
  • Pelvic ultrasound to assess the appearance of the ovaries

According to the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG), PCOS affects approximately 8–13% of women of reproductive age in Australia, depending on the diagnostic criteria used.

Without treatment, PCOS can lead to long-term health problems, such as:

  • Type-2 diabetes
  • High blood pressure and cardiovascular disease
  • Infertility
  • Endometrial hyperplasia or cancer (due to unopposed oestrogen)
  • Mood disorders including anxiety and depression

This makes proactive management crucial, even for those who are not currently planning a pregnancy.

PCOS is a lifelong condition, but its symptoms and health impacts can be effectively managed with the right support.

Lifestyle Changes

  • Diet and exercise: Weight management through a healthy, balanced diet and regular physical activity can significantly improve symptoms, insulin sensitivity, and fertility.

Medical Management

  • Hormonal contraception: The oral contraceptive pill or hormonal IUD can help regulate periods, reduce androgen levels, and manage acne and excess hair.
  • Metformin: This medication improves insulin resistance and may help with weight regulation and ovulation.
  • Fertility treatments: For women trying to conceive, medications such as letrozole or clomiphene can help induce ovulation.
  • Anti-androgen medications: May be prescribed to reduce unwanted hair growth and acne.

Personalised Care at Olika

At Olika, we understand the personal and medical complexity of PCOS. Our team offers:

  • Comprehensive assessments
  • Tailored treatment plans focusing on symptom relief and prevention of long-term complications
  • Emotional wellbeing support through referrals to dietitians, psychologists, and fertility specialists

We take a holistic, patient-centred approach, supporting you in making sustainable lifestyle changes and choosing medical treatments that suit your goals.

Take Control of Your Health

If you suspect you may have PCOS or have been diagnosed, contact Olika in Canberra today. With the right guidance and support, managing PCOS is entirely achievable. Let us help you live a healthier, more empowered life.

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