Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

If you suspect you have Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), or have already been diagnosed and are seeking expert management, Grosvenor Gardens Healthcare offers professional, patient-centred care in central London. Our experienced gynaecologists understand the varied impact of PCOS on hormonal balance, fertility, and overall wellbeing. We create individualised treatment plans to address the full spectrum of PCOS symptoms, guiding you every step of the way.

Why Choose Grosvenor Gardens Healthcare for PCOS Care?

• Specialist Gynaecology Team: Our consultants have extensive experience in diagnosing and managing PCOS, staying up to date with the latest clinical guidelines.
• Tailored Treatment Plans: From medication to lifestyle advice, we design interventions that best suit your unique hormonal profile, health goals, and personal circumstances.
• Advanced Diagnostic Tools: We use modern blood tests and ultrasound technology to accurately evaluate ovarian function and hormone levels.
• Holistic Approach: Recognising that PCOS can affect weight, mood, skin, and fertility, we consider all aspects of your wellbeing for a comprehensive care plan.
• Convenient London Locations: Our clinics are easily accessible for timely appointments and follow-up consultations.

Understanding Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

PCOS is a common hormonal condition affecting how the ovaries work. It’s named for the presence of multiple small, fluid-filled sacs (often called cysts) around the edges of the ovaries, although not everyone with PCOS has visible cysts on an ultrasound. The condition often manifests in adolescence or early adulthood, but it can be diagnosed at any age.

Key Hormonal Imbalances

• Excess Androgens: Elevated levels of ‘male’ hormones such as testosterone can cause symptoms like excess hair growth (hirsutism) and acne.
• Insulin Resistance: PCOS is frequently associated with insulin resistance, which can affect weight and increase the risk of type 2 diabetes.
• Irregular Ovulation: High androgen levels or insulin resistance can disrupt ovulation, leading to irregular or absent periods and fertility challenges.

Signs and Symptoms

While every individual’s experience can differ, common indicators of PCOS include:

• Irregular or Infrequent Periods: Menstrual cycles may be longer than 35 days, or you may have fewer than 9 periods a year.
• Excess Hair Growth (Hirsutism): Usually on the face, chest, or back, due to elevated androgen levels.
• Acne or Oily Skin: Hormonal imbalances often worsen breakouts, particularly along the jawline or lower face.
• Weight Gain or Difficulty Losing Weight: Insulin resistance can make managing weight more challenging.
• Thinning Hair on the Scalp: Some individuals experience scalp hair loss or thinning.
• Fertility Problems: Difficulty conceiving may occur due to irregular ovulation.
• Mood Changes: PCOS can affect mental health, contributing to anxiety or low mood.

If you notice several of these symptoms or have any concerns, seeking professional advice can help clarify the underlying causes and guide treatment.

Diagnosing PCOS

1. Clinical Consultation: Your gynaecologist will discuss your symptoms, medical history, and family history to gain an overall picture of your hormonal health.
2. Physical Examination: This may include measurements of weight, body mass index (BMI), and blood pressure, helping assess any signs of insulin resistance.
3. Blood Tests: Hormone profiling (testing levels of testosterone, LH, FSH, and sometimes DHEA-S) and checking fasting glucose or insulin levels can shed light on underlying imbalances.
4. Ultrasound Scan: A pelvic ultrasound can reveal if there are multiple follicles or “cysts” on the ovaries, which is often part of PCOS diagnosis.

Diagnosis typically follows the Rotterdam criteria, requiring two out of three of the following: irregular or absent ovulation, high androgen levels (clinically or via blood tests), and polycystic ovaries on ultrasound.

Treatment and Management Options

Lifestyle Modifications

• Diet & Exercise: Adopting a balanced diet and regular activity can help manage insulin resistance, stabilise weight, and regulate menstrual cycles.
• Stress Management: Techniques like mindfulness, yoga, or counselling may alleviate mood fluctuations often associated with PCOS.

Medication

• Hormonal Contraceptives: Combined oral contraceptives or progesterone-only pills may be prescribed to regulate menstrual cycles and reduce androgen-related symptoms such as acne.
• Insulin Sensitising Agents (e.g., Metformin): If insulin resistance is significant, these medications can help the body use insulin more effectively.
• Fertility Treatments: If pregnancy is a goal, options like ovulation induction (using Clomiphene or Letrozole) or IVF may be considered under close medical supervision.

Additional Support

• Skin & Hair Treatment: Topical creams, laser hair removal, or acne therapies can address external manifestations of PCOS.
• Psychological Support: Counselling or therapy can be beneficial if you’re experiencing stress, anxiety, or depression related to PCOS.
• Regular Check-Ups: Ongoing monitoring and tailored follow-ups help adjust treatment as needed, especially if your symptoms or circumstances change.

Book Your Private PCOS Consultation in London

Living with PCOS can be challenging, but you don’t have to face it alone. At Grosvenor Gardens Healthcare, our goal is to empower you with clear information, customised treatment plans, and continuous support to help you feel your best.

Contact us today to schedule a private consultation or to learn more about our specialist approach to diagnosing and managing Polycystic Ovary Syndrome.

Other Services we offer: 

Private Gynaecologists

Private GP

Private Paediatrician

Private Obstetrician & Maternity Hospital

Private Colposcopy