PCOS & Weight Gain

What is PCOS and how does it relate to weight gain?

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder that affects how a woman’s ovaries work. It often leads to weight gain, particularly around the abdomen, due to hormonal imbalances and insulin resistance.

How common is weight gain with PCOS?

Weight gain is very common in PCOS. Up to 80% of women with PCOS experience difficulties managing their weight.

Is PCOS-related weight gain serious?

Yes. Weight gain can worsen PCOS symptoms and increase the risk of serious conditions like type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and infertility.

When and how to get help with PCOS and weight gain

If you’re struggling to manage your weight alongside other symptoms like irregular periods or acne, see a GP or endocrinologist for diagnosis and support.

How to know if you have PCOS-related weight gain

• Weight gain, particularly around the abdomen
  
• Difficulty losing weight despite efforts
  
• Irregular or absent periods
  
• Excess hair growth (hirsutism)
  
• Acne or oily skin
  

Typical signs and symptoms of PCOS

• Irregular menstruation
  
• Infertility
  
• Mood changes
  
• Thinning hair on the scalp
  
• Skin darkening in body folds
  

Complications of untreated PCOS-related weight gain

• Type 2 diabetes
  
• Cardiovascular disease
  
• Sleep apnoea
  
• Endometrial cancer
• Emotional distress and low self-esteem

What causes weight gain in PCOS?

• Insulin resistance leading to higher insulin levels
  
• Hormonal imbalances (high androgens)
  
• Slower metabolism
  
• Genetic predisposition
  

Risk factors for PCOS and weight gain

• Family history of PCOS
  
• Sedentary lifestyle
  
• Poor dietary habits
  
• Stress and sleep disturbances
  

Is PCOS-related weight gain hereditary or lifestyle-based?

Both. Genetics play a significant role, but lifestyle factors can worsen or help manage the condition.

How is PCOS diagnosed?

A combination of medical history, physical examination, ultrasound imaging of the ovaries, and blood tests to check hormone levels.

Tests and assessments used to identify PCOS and weight-related risks

• Blood sugar and insulin testing
  
• Lipid profile
  
• Hormone level testing (e.g., testosterone)
• Pelvic ultrasound

Medical treatment for PCOS and weight management

• Hormonal birth control pills to regulate periods
  
• Metformin to improve insulin resistance
  
• Medications to reduce androgen levels
  

Therapies and interventions for PCOS-related weight gain

• Nutritional counselling
  
• Behavioural therapy for lifestyle changes
  
• Structured weight loss programmes
  

Do medications help with PCOS-related weight gain?

Medications can help improve insulin sensitivity and hormonal balance, supporting weight management when combined with lifestyle changes.

Lifestyle changes to manage PCOS-related weight gain

• Balanced, low-glycaemic index (GI) diet
  
• Regular cardiovascular and resistance exercise
  
• Stress management practices
  
• Prioritising sleep hygiene
  

Home remedies and self-help strategies

• Tracking meals and symptoms
  
• Using mindfulness techniques to avoid emotional eating
• Building a supportive community or network

When should you get medical help for PCOS and weight gain?

• Difficulty managing weight despite efforts
  
• Severe or worsening symptoms
  
• Concerns about fertility
  
• Signs of depression or emotional distress

PCOS in adolescents

Early diagnosis and lifestyle interventions are key to preventing long-term complications.

PCOS during pregnancy

PCOS increases the risk of pregnancy complications. Careful monitoring and management are essential.

PCOS in older women

Although symptoms may lessen with age, metabolic risks often remain and require ongoing attention.

Can you prevent PCOS-related weight gain?

While PCOS itself cannot always be prevented, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can significantly minimise weight gain and complications.

Tips to reduce your risk of weight gain with PCOS

• Focus on whole foods and balanced meals
  
• Stay physically active
  
• Manage stress effectively
• Attend regular health check-ups

Living with PCOS and weight issues

Long-term success involves ongoing management of both hormonal and lifestyle factors, with regular support from healthcare professionals.

How to manage PCOS-related weight issues in the long term

• Consistent healthy eating
  
• Regular exercise
  
• Medication adherence where prescribed
• Psychological support if needed

Our mission

Medicspot is committed to helping women with PCOS take control of their health through professional, personalised care.

How to get treatment

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This article is for general information only and should not be used for the diagnosis or treatment of medical conditions. Medic Spot Limited has used all reasonable care in compiling the information but makes no warranty as to its accuracy. Consult a doctor or other health care professional for diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions. In the event of an emergency, please call 999 for immediate assistance.

There is no guarantee of a specific weight loss medication being prescribed. Clinicians will review your online questionnaire alongside other independently validated medical information about you and will recommend the most appropriate weight loss treatments for you based on your answers. In some cases the clinicians may contact you for additional information. See Terms of Service for more information.