Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) refers to a cluster of conditions that occur in 5% to 10% of premenopausal women in Australia. A family history of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome or type 2 diabetes may indicate a predisposition to Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome.

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome is diagnosed when two or more of the following three conditions occur together.

• Polycystic Ovaries (cysts that appear in the ovaries when incomplete ovulation occurs)
• Hyperanderogenism (abnormal levels of testosterone leading to excess body hair and sometimes scalp hair loss)
• Anovulation (not ovulating)

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome can occur in adolescence and is usually diagnosed during the childbearing years. Women who have PCOS usually have one or more of the following symptoms - menstrual problems, infertility, excess body hair or acne.

When women have PCOS they are especially prone to type 2 diabetes and their risk of heart disease is significantly increased so it is good to have an early diagnosis and begin appropriate intervention. Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome is similar to Syndrome X because it causes insulin resistance, although it is not always associated with obesity.

The treatment for PCOS now focuses on treating the insulin resistance first. Lifestyle changes such as:

• Achieving a healthy weight
• Being physically active
• Eating a diet consistent with the Dietary Guidelines

have been shown to be effective in the management of polycystic ovarian syndrome, promoting fertility and reducing the risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes. Medications are often used in addition to lifestyle changes.

Dietitians have much to offer the woman with PCOS, assisting clients to make dietary changes to improve heart health, reproductive health and reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life.


For personal assistance with assessment of your diet and planning a healthy diet contact an Accredited Practising Dietitian .