Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a complex hormonal disorder that affects many Australian women of reproductive age. While there is no cure for PCOS, effective management strategies exist to control symptoms, improve quality of life, and reduce long-term health risks. Treatment in Australia is personalised and often involves a combination of lifestyle changes, medications, and specialist support.
Understanding PCOS Treatment Goals
The main objectives of PCOS treatment are to:
- Regulate menstrual cycles
- Manage symptoms such as excess hair growth, acne, and weight gain
- Improve insulin resistance and metabolic health
- Support fertility and pregnancy outcomes
- Address emotional and mental wellbeing
- Prevent long-term complications like type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease
Lifestyle Modifications: The Foundation of PCOS Management
Australian health experts emphasise that lifestyle changes are the cornerstone of managing PCOS. These include:
- Balanced Diet: While there is no one-size-fits-all diet for PCOS, a nutritious, balanced diet rich in whole foods, fibre, and low in processed sugars supports weight management and insulin sensitivity.
- Regular Physical Activity: Engaging in at least 150 minutes of moderate to vigorous exercise weekly helps regulate blood sugar, improve mood, and promote weight control.
- Weight Management: Even a modest weight loss (5-10%) can significantly improve symptoms and fertility in women with PCOS.
- Mental Health Support: Addressing anxiety, depression, and stress through counselling or therapy is vital for holistic care.
Pharmacological Treatments Available in Australia
When lifestyle changes alone are insufficient, medications tailored to individual symptoms are prescribed.
1. Hormonal Contraceptives (The ‘Pill’)
Combined oral contraceptive pills (COCP) are commonly used to regulate menstrual cycles, reduce androgen levels, and improve acne and excess hair growth. Progestin-only options like Mirena or Implanon may also be used to protect the uterine lining.
2. Metformin
This insulin-sensitising drug helps improve blood sugar control, reduce insulin resistance, and may assist in weight management. It can also help restore menstrual regularity and reduce androgen levels. Metformin is often prescribed alongside lifestyle interventions.
3. Anti-Androgens
Medications such as spironolactone and cyproterone acetate block the effects of male hormones, reducing symptoms like hirsutism and acne. These drugs are not suitable during pregnancy and require effective contraception.
4. Fertility Medications
For women trying to conceive, drugs like letrozole and clomiphene citrate stimulate ovulation. If these are ineffective, injectable follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) treatments may be used under specialist supervision.
5. Acne Treatments
In severe cases, dermatologists may prescribe isotretinoin (Roaccutane), which requires careful monitoring due to its teratogenic effects.
Specialist and Multidisciplinary Care
Managing PCOS often involves a team approach in Australia, including:
- General Practitioners (GPs)
- Endocrinologists
- Gynaecologists
- Dietitians
- Psychologists
- Fertility specialists
- Dermatologists
This collaborative care ensures personalised treatment plans addressing the full spectrum of PCOS symptoms and health risks.
Emerging and Complementary Therapies
Supplements such as inositol have shown promise in improving insulin sensitivity and ovulation. Additionally, stress management techniques, acupuncture, and herbal remedies may complement conventional treatments but should be discussed with healthcare providers.
Accessing PCOS Treatment in Australia
Women can seek help through public health services, private clinics, and specialised women’s health centres such as Jean Hailes for Women’s Health. Early diagnosis and ongoing management are key to improving outcomes.
PCOS treatment in Australia is multifaceted, focusing on lifestyle, medication, and specialist support tailored to each woman’s needs. While there is no cure, effective management can control symptoms, enhance fertility, and reduce long-term health risks, empowering women to lead healthier lives.