PCOS Package

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common hormonal conditions affecting women of reproductive age. It develops when the balance of reproductive hormones is disrupted, which can affect how regularly the ovaries release an egg each month. The World Health Organization estimates that PCOS affects around 10 to 13 per cent of women of reproductive age, yet up to 70 per cent of those affected worldwide have never been formally diagnosed.

The way PCOS shows up is different for everyone. Common features include irregular, infrequent or absent periods, excess facial or body hair, acne, changes in weight and difficulty conceiving. Some women notice only mild signs while others experience several. Because these symptoms overlap with other conditions, a consultation, an ultrasound scan and blood tests are usually considered together rather than in isolation.

Finding out whether PCOS is behind your symptoms matters for both your fertility and your longer-term health. It is the most common cause of irregular ovulation and a leading reason women seek help with conception (World Health Organization). This package brings that assessment together in one place, so a consultant gynaecologist can explain what your results mean and support you with the next steps, including any fertility planning.

For women with suspected PCOS or irregular vaginal bleeding.

This packages includes

• A consultation with a consultant gynaecologist with pre-pregnancy advice, including gynaecology ultrasound scanning
• Blood test screening for the following:

There is no single test for PCOS. A diagnosis is usually made when at least two of three features are present: irregular, infrequent or absent periods; raised male-type hormones (androgens), either from your symptoms or a blood test; and the appearance of polycystic ovaries on an ultrasound scan (Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists). Just as importantly, other conditions that can cause similar symptoms are ruled out first.

This is why the package pairs a gynaecology ultrasound scan with a broad blood panel rather than relying on either alone. The scan lets the clinician look closely at your ovaries and womb, while the hormone and metabolic bloods build the wider picture and help exclude other explanations for irregular periods, such as a thyroid or prolactin imbalance that can affect your cycle in similar ways.

Bringing the scan and the bloods together in one appointment means your consultant gynaecologist can interpret them side by side rather than in isolation. If PCOS is confirmed, they can begin shaping a management plan with you; if it is not, the same assessment often helps point towards what else may be going on. You can read more about our wider gynaecology services if you would like related support.

You will receive your ultrasound report shortly after your appointment via our secure cloud system. The bloods are processed by our partner laboratory TDL here in London and can take 1-5 days to be processed.

Following the receipt of the results, we will arrange a 10 minute Zoom/Telephone consultation to interpret the results and discuss the following actions.

We are also happy to send the results to your GP and arrange any further referrals as appropriate.

If the check-up results in any concerns regarding your health, we will arrange a referral letter explaining our finding and diagnosis to your GP. We are also able to refer you to a Private Hospital or specialist of your choice or recommend a trusted expert from our wide network colleagues in the field.

If your results confirm PCOS, it is reassuring to know that the condition can usually be managed well. There is no cure, but symptoms often respond to a combination of lifestyle measures and, where appropriate, medication (NHS). Any plan is tailored to you, whether your main concern is your periods, your skin and hair, your weight or planning a pregnancy.

PCOS is also linked with some longer-term health considerations, including a higher chance of developing type 2 diabetes, raised blood pressure and cardiovascular problems over time (NHS). The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists notes that around one to two in every ten women with PCOS go on to develop diabetes. Staying active, maintaining a weight that is healthy for you and having regular check-ups can all help to reduce these risks.

Because very infrequent periods can allow the womb lining to build up over time, your gynaecologist may also talk with you about keeping your cycle regular. And if you are trying to conceive, PCOS is one of the most common and most treatable causes of difficulty getting pregnant — our fertility services can help you explore the next steps when you are ready.

This information is intended for general educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for guidance specific to your individual circumstances.