Living with PCOS in Milton Keynes doesn’t mean accepting symptoms as “just part of life.” Have you heard of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome or PCOS? It affects 1 in 10 women, although figures may be higher as not all women know they have this condition.
The name is slightly misleading as this condition affects much more than just the ovaries. It is primarily a metabolic condition which means it affects how the body handles hormones such as insulin and the impact on our sex hormones.
At The Female Health Doctor, we understand that PCOS affects every woman differently, which is why our Milton Keynes clinic offers personalised PCOS treatment plans designed specifically for your needs. Our team of qualified women’s health specialists rovide comprehensive PCOS care that goes beyond basic symptom management.
Recognising PCOS Signs
Signs that you may have PCOS include:
– Irregular or absent periods
– Increased acne affecting professional confidence
– Facial or body hair growth
– Difficulty losing weight despite diet and exercise efforts
– Hair thinning, often around the forehead
PCOS Diagnosis at Our Milton Keynes Clinic
Diagnosis looks at your history and different results which may include blood tests to look for raised testosterone levels or an ultrasound scan to show small cysts on the ovaries.
Our comprehensive diagnosis approach includes:
– Detailed symptom assessment and medical history
– Blood tests to check for raised testosterone levels (FAI, SHBG, Testosterone, Oestradiol)
– Ultrasound scans to identify small cysts on the ovaries
– Metabolic testing including insulin resistance markers
The Science Behind PCOS:
With PCOS there is an increased amount of testosterone in the body which causes acne, increased facial and body hair. It can also lead to changes with hair loss, often around the forehead with thinning occurring here.
The ovaries may also change. An ultrasound scan can detect the typical appearance of PCOS with the many small cysts (follicles) in slightly enlarged ovaries. Because of these changes the ovaries may not produce an egg each month, which in turn leads to irregular periods as the typical hormonal changes triggered by ovulation do not occur. Not all women with PCOS will have changes visible on the scan and not all women with the cystic appearance have PCOS.
Why PCOS Requires Specialist Care in Milton Keynes
Traditionally PCOS was thought to be a gynaecological condition and whilst it does affect women in this way it is important to be aware of the impact it has on our whole body. Women who have PCOS are at increased risk of developing:
– Obesity and difficulty maintaining healthy weight
– Fatty liver disease
– High cholesterol
– Type 2 diabetes
– High blood pressure
– Sleep apnoea
– Endometrial (womb) cancer
– Stroke and heart disease
Fertility & Pregnancy Considerations:
It can also impact on fertility and during pregnancy with an increased risk of diabetes triggered by pregnancy called gestational diabetes. If you have gestational diabetes, you should be followed up postnatally and annually to check for type 2 diabetes. This is because you are at increased risk, with 50% of women who have had gestational diabetes developing Type 2 diabetes later in life.
Comprehensive PCOS Treatment Options in Milton Keynes
Our PCOS treatment approach addresses the full spectrum of symptoms including:
Lifestyle & Weight Management
It is possible to dramatically reduce the risk of long-term conditions by eating a Mediterranean diet, low in sugar and ultra processed food. This will help to reduce insulin resistance and weight gain. Women who can keep their BMI between 20-25 will see benefits long term. We also know that weight loss can boost fertility and help to regulate periods.
Medical Weight Loss Support
Because losing weight can be challenging if you have PCOS we sometimes use medication to help. We can offer this via the clinic and can discuss the use of:
– Metformin tablets to help reduce insulin resistance
– Weight loss injections known as GLP1 agonists such as Mounjaro which reduce insulin resistance and deliver weight loss
Even a moderate weight loss of 10% can boost fertility. Through our doctor led service we are specialists in both and can support with weight loss management, lifestyle advice and hormonal support. You can access our weight loss injection clinic by booking an appointment with Dr Nicky or Dr Samila to learn more: Book Appointment
Hormonal Management
If you have PCOS it is important that you have a period 3-4 times a year if not on hormonal therapy. This can be done by taking a progesterone pill for a few days every 3-4 months. This allows the lining of the womb to be shed so that it doesn’t thicken and put you at risk of endometrial cancer.
Other options include:
– Mirena IUS or coil as it is sometimes called
– Progesterone only or combined contraceptive pill – certain combined oral contraception pills are most suitable for women with PCOS
– Slynd – a newer progesterone only pill that has been shown to be especially helpful for women with PCOS. It helps to reduce the effect of the testosterone, improving hair thinning, acne, facial and body hair.
Cosmetic Symptom Management
Excess Hair Treatment:
Increased facial and body hair can be improved with medications such as:
– Hormonal contraceptives
– Spironolactone
– Vaniqa cream (available through our clinic)
– Some women also find laser hair removal an option
Acne Management:
Acne can also be improved with:
– Hormonal contraceptives
– Topical or oral antibiotics
– Topical retinoids
– Occasionally dermatologists will prescribe strong oral retinoids such as Roaccutane
Hair Loss Treatment:
Hair thinning and receding hair lines can be managed by Dr Samila who runs our specialist skin and hair services: Book Hair Consultation
PCOS Care Tailored for Milton Keynes Women
We understand the unique challenges facing professional women in Milton Keynes. Whether you’re experiencing brain fog during important meetings, struggling with energy crashes that affect your productivity, or dealing with mood changes that impact your leadership confidence, our PCOS treatment addresses these workplace challenges.
FAQ: Common PCOS Questions from Milton Keynes Patients
Q: How quickly can I get PCOS treatment in Milton Keynes?
A: Most patients complete their journey from initial consultation to treatment plan within 2-4 weeks. We offer same-week appointments for urgent concerns.
Q: Do you accept insurance for PCOS treatment?
A: We accept Juniper insurance for private health coverage. Self-pay options include flexible payment plans.
Q: Can I continue PCOS treatment with my NHS GP after your consultation?
A: Absolutely. We provide comprehensive reports to your NHS GP, or you can join our membership programme for ongoing specialist support.
Q: What makes your PCOS treatment different from NHS care?
A: We offer comprehensive testing packages, same-week appointments, and specialised treatments like Slynd and Mounjaro that may not be readily available through NHS pathways.
Get Expert PCOS Care Today
If you are concerned you may have PCOS or have been diagnosed but are struggling to access the support and treatment needed, you are not alone and we can help. We can see, investigate and treat women throughout the UK online via video or telephone or in our clinic in Milton Keynes.
Ready to take control of your PCOS symptoms? Book your consultation with our specialist team today.
Book Your PCOS Consultation
You can read more about PCOS and support available here:
– Patient.info PCOS Guide
– RCOG PCOS Information
– NHS PCOS Information
– Verity PCOS Charity
The Female Health Doctor – Expert women’s health care in Milton Keynes and across the UK. Specialised PCOS treatment, hormone testing, and comprehensive women’s health services from qualified specialists who understand your needs.