Article by Gynaecologist Dr Nitu Bajekal and Nutritionist Rohini Bajekal.
It almost certainly affects someone you know and care for. Despite this, most people have never heard of this common condition. Here are 10 things to know about PCOS:
1. PCOS is the most common hormonal or endocrine disorder with reproductive, metabolic, and psychological consequences. Depending on how hard one looks for the condition, up to 3 in 4 (75%) of those with PCOS remain undiagnosed. Think of PCOS as a close cousin of Type 2 diabetes.
2. To diagnose Polycystic Ovary Syndrome in adults, any two out of three of the criteria below have to be met (Rotterdam criteria).
3. The main driver of PCOS in the majority of people is insulin resistance with diet and lifestyle playing a pivotal role in women who are predisposed to developing the condition.
4. Infrequent periods or missed periods are the most common sign of PCOS (oligomenorrhoea/amenorrhoea) because of anovulation with excess facial/body hair (hirsutism), acne (often adult and/or cystic) and scalp hair loss (alopecia) being the signs of excess androgens (testosterone).
5. Other signs include unwanted weight gain (8 out of 10), insulin resistance, binge eating disorders, sleep disturbances (sleep apnoea, snoring), Acanthosis nigricans (darkened skin: behind the neck, underarms, groin), depression and anxiety.
6. PCOS is the most common cause of infertility because of a failure to release eggs regularly (anovulation) but most women will go on to get pregnant, with lifestyle changes and fertility treatment.
7. PCOS is a chronic condition so while there is no “cure”, making positive lifestyle changes can go a very long way in managing PCOS and its symptoms including insulin resistance, both in the short term and longer term. Lifestyle modifications can tackle the underlying insulin resistance. All national and international guidelines recommend lifestyle and behavioural changes to be the first line of management for PCOS, even before medications and supplements which may have a role to play in individual cases.
8. Here are the six core pillars that everyone should follow if they have PCOS.
9. Consuming minimally processed soya regularly (edamame and mature soya beans, soya milk, tofu and tempeh) has been consistently shown to help with the symptoms of PCOS including weight loss and reduction in waist circumference. Soya helps to counteract hormone disruption and improve many of the metabolic markers (insulin responses, insulin resistance, blood sugar levels and triglycerides) seen in the condition.
10. PCOS can be managed successfully with women living a full and happy life with the help of lifestyle changes with or without medication. Self-care is very important to be able to get control of your PCOS.
July
26julAll DayTessy's Brunches Presents: Engage HER
26/07/2025 All Day(GMT+00:00)
Stanley Stephenson Lounge
Crystal Palace Football Club, Holmesdale Road, London, SE25 6PU
Engage Her – July 26, 2025 Event Summary: Engage Her is a dynamic event focused on fostering meaningful connections and building a supportive
Event Summary: Engage Her is a dynamic event focused on fostering meaningful connections and building a supportive community of women. Through interactive workshops, networking opportunities, and engaging discussions, attendees will have the chance to share experiences, learn from one another, and grow together. This event aims to create a welcoming environment where women can support each other in their personal and professional journeys.
Highlights:
• Engaging workshops and interactive sessions encouraging active participation.
• Networking opportunities to expand personal and professional connections.
• Panel discussions with industry leaders sharing insights and experiences.
• Community-building activities to foster lasting relationships.
Mark your calendars for Engage Her on July 26, 2025, a vibrant event designed to connect and inspire women. Participate in interactive workshops, network with like-minded individuals, and join discussions with industry leaders. Build meaningful relationships and grow within a supportive community. Engage Her is your opportunity to connect, learn, and thrive together. Don’t miss out—register now!
Indulge in a sumptuous spread of delicious treats crafted to tantalize your taste buds.
Tickets are available for £50 and the event is open to all women. Let’s come together and support each other as we navigate the challenges of life. We can’t wait to see you there!
Tessy’s Brunches (www.tessysbrunches) is dedicated to creating a platform where unseen women become visible through networking and mentoring opportunities. Our mission is not only about recognising women but understanding and addressing their unique challenges.
Our aims are rooted in three core principles: Empower, Engage, and Elevate. We seek to empower women by inspiring personal growth and self-discovery. We aim to engage by fostering meaningful connections and building a supportive community. Finally, we strive to elevate by enhancing professional development and personal fulfilment. Through these pillars, we are dedicated to helping women overcome barriers, realize their potential, and achieve both personal and professional success.
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