PCOS: UK Online Doctor Guide & Treatment
Educational information — not medical advice.
This article was prepared by the OnlineDoctor24 editorial team and reviewed for factual accuracy against UK clinical guidance (NHS and NICE). It is not written by a doctor and does not replace personal medical advice. For symptoms specific to you, book an online doctor consultation.
Key points
- PCOS affects ~1 in 10 women — common and treatable.
- Diagnosis: 2 of 3 — irregular cycles, hyperandrogenism, polycystic ovaries on scan.
- Lifestyle (weight, exercise) is foundation of treatment.
- Combined pill, metformin and acne treatments help.
- Long-term: monitor for diabetes, cardiovascular risk.
Symptoms
- Irregular or absent periods
- Acne, oily skin
- Excess hair (face, chest)
- Scalp hair thinning
- Weight gain, difficulty losing weight
- Reduced fertility
- Insulin resistance
Diagnosis
Blood tests: testosterone, SHBG, LH, FSH, fasting glucose/HbA1c, lipids, prolactin, TSH. Pelvic ultrasound if needed. Diagnosis based on Rotterdam criteria.
Treatment
- Lifestyle: 5–10% weight loss often restores ovulation.
- Combined pill: regulates cycles, helps acne and hair.
- Metformin: insulin sensitivity, helpful for weight and ovulation.
- Spironolactone: for hirsutism (under specialist).
- Topical eflornithine cream: for facial hair.
- Fertility treatment: letrozole or clomiphene under fertility specialist.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions UK patients ask about polycystic ovary syndrome.
How an online doctor can help
Related articles
Contraception Options: UK Online Doctor Guide
Pill, coil, implant, injection or patch? Learn UK contraceptive options and how to start, switch or repeat with an online doctor.
Menopause & HRT: UK Online Doctor Guide
Hot flushes, night sweats, brain fog, low mood? Learn UK menopause treatment with HRT, lifestyle and non-hormonal options via online GP.
Irregular Periods: UK Online Doctor Guide
Periods unpredictable, missed or very heavy? Learn the causes and how a UK online doctor can investigate and treat.
This article is for general information only and does not replace personal medical advice from a qualified doctor. Content is reviewed against UK NHS and NICE guidance by the OnlineDoctor24 editorial team and is not authored by a medical doctor. If your symptoms worsen or you are unsure, please book a consultation with a GMC-registered GP.
See a UK GP about this today
Same-day video or phone consultations with GMC-registered GPs. Prescriptions, sick notes and referrals when clinically appropriate.