Prevention of PCOS

PCOS itself cannot be fully prevented, because genes play a role. You can lower the chance of symptoms getting worse and reduce long-term risks.

Habits that help

• Keep a healthy weight, especially if PCOS runs in your family
• Exercise regularly: at least 150 minutes a week
• Eat a balanced, high-fibre, low-sugar diet
• Sleep well and manage stress
• Avoid smoking
• Treat irregular periods early: do not ignore gaps of several months

Protecting long-term health in PCOS

• Check blood sugar (HbA1c or fasting glucose) every year or as advised
• Check blood pressure and cholesterol regularly
• Protect the womb lining: have at least 3 to 4 periods a year, or take a medicine that induces bleeding, as advised
• Screen for sleep apnoea and fatty liver if symptoms
• Look after mental health: low mood and anxiety are common
• Plan pregnancy with your doctor, and aim for a healthy weight before conceiving

For teenagers

Healthy habits early in puberty may reduce later problems. Persistent irregular periods beyond 2 to 3 years after the first period should be checked.

Ayurvedic view

Daily routine, light food, exercise and avoidance of daytime sleep are said to prevent Kapha accumulation. These overlap with sensible modern advice. Claims that a herb prevents PCOS are not proven.

See a doctor if you have a family history of PCOS or diabetes and your periods are irregular.

When to get help

See a gynaecologist or endocrinologist if your periods are very irregular or absent, you have rapid hair growth or hair loss, you have been trying to conceive for 6 to 12 months, or you have symptoms of high blood sugar such as thirst and frequent urination.

Remember

You cannot always prevent PCOS, but you can protect your heart, sugar levels and womb.