PCOS symptoms workplace prevention

Overview

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal condition that affects how the ovaries work. It can cause irregular periods, extra hair on the face or body, acne, and weight gain. The exact cause is not fully understood, but the condition can be managed with the right support.

Yes. PCOS is one of the most common hormonal conditions in people of reproductive age, affecting around 1 in 10 people with ovaries.

PCOS usually starts in the teenage years or early 20s. It can affect anyone with ovaries, regardless of weight or ethnicity, though some groups have higher rates.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Irregular periods or no periods at all
• Heavy, painful periods
• Acne, especially on the face, chest, or back
• Extra hair growth on the face, chest, or stomach
• Thinning hair on the scalp
• Weight gain, especially around the middle
• Difficulty managing blood sugar
• Fatigue and low energy
• Mood changes, including anxiety or low mood

Symptoms in children

• PCOS usually does not appear before the teenage years. Early signs may include irregular periods after the first period, severe acne, or rapid weight gain, but these can be normal during puberty and need a doctor's assessment.

Symptoms in older adults

• After menopause, PCOS symptoms like irregular periods stop, but the underlying metabolic risks – such as higher blood sugar and blood pressure – may continue. Regular health checks become especially important.

Causes

Main causes

• The exact cause of PCOS is not known
• Long-standing inflammation may play a role, as well as insulin resistance
• Genetics – PCOS can run in families
• A hormone imbalance, including higher levels of androgens (male-like hormones)

Risk factors

• Having a mother or sister with PCOS
• Living with overweight or obesity
• Insulin resistance or type 2 diabetes
• A family history of type 2 diabetes or heart disease

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have emergency symptoms listed above, call for immediate help
• If you have severe pain or bleeding, see a doctor or go to urgent care the same day

Book a routine appointment if:

• If your periods are irregular, absent, or very heavy, see a doctor
• If you have ongoing acne, extra hair growth, or difficulty losing weight that worries you
• If you are trying to conceive and have not had success after a year (or after 6 months if you are over 35)
• If you have symptoms of diabetes, such as always being thirsty or needing to urinate a lot

Diagnosis

Doctors usually diagnose PCOS based on your symptoms, a physical examination, and test results. There is no single test, so the doctor will look at a combination of things. This often means ruling out other causes of your symptoms.

Tests that may be done

• Blood tests to check hormone levels, blood sugar, cholesterol, and other health markers
• An ultrasound scan of your pelvis to look at your ovaries and the lining of your womb (uterus)
• A discussion of your medical history and your symptoms (for example, your cycle length and whether you have had acne or hair growth changes)

What to expect at your appointment

Your doctor may ask about your periods, weight, skin, and hair growth, and whether you are trying to conceive. You may be referred to a specialist in hormones (an endocrinologist) or gynaecology. Diagnosis can take some time, but a clear picture helps you get the right support.

Treatment

There is no cure for PCOS, but a range of treatments can help manage symptoms and reduce long-term risks. Treatment is tailored to your goals – for example, regulating your periods, improving skin symptoms, supporting fertility, or protecting your metabolic health.

Self-care at home

• Keep a routine at work – plan regular breaks to move and stretch
• Keep water and healthy snacks at your desk to prevent blood sugar dips
• Use a diary or app to track your cycle, symptoms, and energy levels
• Talk to your manager or HR if you need flexible working for appointments or to manage energy
• Try to manage stress with breathing exercises, mindfulness, or a short walk at lunchtime

Medical treatments

Medical treatment for PCOS depends on your symptoms and whether you want to become pregnant. Doctors may offer hormonal contraceptives to regulate periods and reduce androgen effects, medicines to improve skin or hair symptoms, or medicines to help the body use insulin more effectively. If you are trying to conceive, there are fertility treatments available, but these should be discussed with your doctor. Medications should only be taken after a consultation.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is not a standard treatment for PCOS. In rare cases, a small procedure to improve ovulation may be offered in specialist fertility care, but this would be discussed with your care team.

Living with this condition

Living with PCOS can feel overwhelming at times, but small daily habits make a big difference. At work, plan your day so you have time to eat regularly, drink water, and move your body. Use your lunch break to stretch or take a short walk. If you are tired, break tasks into smaller steps and speak to your manager about reasonable adjustments.

Lifestyle tips

• Move your body every day – even a 20-minute walk helps your body use insulin better
• Prioritise sleep – aim for 7 to 9 hours a night to help balance hormones
• Find stress-relieving activities that work for you, such as reading, music, or talking to a friend
• Limit processed foods and sugary drinks at home and at work
• Quit smoking and limit alcohol – these can make symptoms worse

Diet and exercise

A balanced diet rich in vegetables, fruit, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats can help your body manage blood sugar and inflammation. Regular exercise, including strength training and aerobic activity, helps with weight management and improves insulin sensitivity. You do not need to be perfect – gentle, consistent effort is best.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

PCOS can affect how you feel about yourself. Symptoms like acne, unwanted hair, weight gain, and difficulties with fertility can cause anxiety, low mood, and stress. It is common to feel frustrated or worried. If you feel this way, please talk to your doctor or a mental health professional. You may also find peer support helpful.

Prevention

PCOS itself cannot be prevented. However, many of its symptoms and long-term health risks can be prevented or lessened. At work, you can prevent symptom flare-ups by managing stress, keeping regular mealtimes, moving during the day, and letting your employer know when you need support.

Vaccines

There is currently no vaccine to prevent PCOS. Keeping up to date with other recommended vaccines can help protect your overall health, which is especially important if you have conditions like diabetes.

Screening programmes

There is no standard screening test for PCOS for the general public. However, if you have PCOS, your doctor may recommend regular checks for blood sugar, cholesterol, and blood pressure, as these can be affected by the condition.

Complications

If left untreated

• Higher risk of type 2 diabetes and prediabetes
• High blood pressure and unhealthy cholesterol levels
• Sleep apnoea (pauses in breathing during sleep)
• Depression and anxiety
• Fertility difficulties
• A small increased risk of thickening of the womb lining (endometrial hyperplasia) and, in rare cases, cancer of the womb (endometrial cancer)

Long-term outlook

With the right support and steady self-care, most people with PCOS can manage their symptoms well and lead full, healthy lives. PCOS is a lifelong condition, but it does not define you. You can work with your healthcare team to plan for your health and, if you wish, your family.

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