PCOS Management in Point Cook
If you are looking for a doctor for PCOS in Point Cook, our GPs can work out whether your symptoms fit the condition, explain the diagnosis and manage it with you over time. Polycystic ovary syndrome affects about one in eight women in Australia and touches far more than the ovaries.
PCOS has a new name: PMOS
Jean Hailes Women’s Health now uses the name polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS) for polycystic ovary syndrome. The new name reflects that it is a whole-body hormonal and metabolic condition rather than a problem with ovarian cysts. You may see either name on reports and websites; they describe the same condition.
Signs that could point to PCOS
- irregular or absent periods
- extra facial or body hair
- thinning hair on the scalp
- acne or dark patches of skin
- difficulty managing weight
- anxiety or low mood
- trouble getting pregnant
Many people have only some of these, and they can change over the years.
How PCOS is diagnosed
A diagnosis needs two of these three signs, after other causes have been ruled out:
- high androgen (male-type hormone) levels, shown in a blood test or by signs such as excess hair growth
- irregular or absent periods
- many immature follicles in the ovaries on ultrasound, or a high anti-mullerian hormone (AMH) level in a blood test
Jean Hailes notes that ultrasound is not usually recommended for women under 20. Blood tests can often be collected at the clinic through on-site pathology.
PCOS management in Point Cook
Treatment depends on which symptoms bother you most and on your plans. Your GP may discuss:
- changes to eating and activity, usually the first step
- the contraceptive pill or other hormone medicine to regulate periods
- metformin for metabolic symptoms
- anti-androgen medicine for unwanted hair or acne, alongside acne care
- psychological support if mood or body image is affected
If you are trying to conceive, our fertility management page explains the next steps.
Long-term health checks
PCOS raises the risk of type 2 diabetes and heart disease over time, so regular checks of blood glucose, blood pressure and cholesterol are part of good care. Our diabetes care page covers what happens if glucose readings rise. A GP care plan may be suitable for some people with long-term needs.
Preparing for your visit
Bring a record of your recent cycles, a list of medicines and supplements, and any past test or scan results. Note when symptoms began and whether close relatives have PCOS or diabetes. If you already take the contraceptive pill or other hormone medicine, say so, as your GP will factor it into which tests make sense. A longer appointment gives time to cover both the physical and emotional side of the condition, so ask for one when you book.
Living with PCOS
PCOS is long term, so the aim is steady care rather than a single fix. Regular reviews let your GP adjust treatment as your priorities change, for example from managing acne in your twenties to planning a pregnancy later. Jean Hailes also notes higher rates of anxiety and depression with the condition; if that is part of your experience, our mental health services can help alongside your physical care.
Common questions
Can PCOS affect getting pregnant?
It can, and fertility treatment is available when needed. Talk to your GP before you start trying so any checks can be done first.
Is PCOS the same as having ovarian cysts?
No. The follicles seen on ultrasound are immature egg sacs, not cysts, which is one reason the condition has been renamed.
Do I need to see a specialist?
Many people are managed by their GP. You may be referred to an endocrinologist, gynaecologist or fertility specialist if needed.
What does a visit cost?
The clinic uses mixed billing. See the fees page for current fees, or book online.