Polycystic ovaries Syndrome (PCOS) affects around one in ten women in the UK - but the hormonal disorder is notoriously undiagnosed and remains hidden for many sufferers.
The condition usually causes irregular periods, weight gain, acne, excess androgen levels (male hormones) and polycystic ovaries where the ovaries become enlarged and contain fluid-filled sacs.
These fluid-filled sacs are underdeveloped in the follicles of the ovaries, which means they are often unable to release an egg - resulting in a missed period. While it's unclear what the exact cause is, it can often run in families - and is related to abnormal hormone levels in the body, including high levels of insulin.
With dire diagnosis rates and limited resources for women with PCOS to turn to, many look to alternative ways to reverse their symptoms. There are millions of TikTok videos from PCOS sufferers looking for community support and answers - and many doctors sharing advice on the platform about the disorder.
Now PCOS sufferers are left wondering whether weight loss drugs like Ozempic could help relieve their symptoms, particularly after researchers discovered that the medication could reduce a person's risk of heart attacks and strokes.
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As Ozempic takes the Hollywood circuit by storm, we ask medical experts whether the drug could offer hope to PCOS patients struggling with their symptoms.
What is Ozempic and can it help with PCOS?
The drug Ozempic is used for people with diabetes. The medication "mimics" the action of a hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), as explained by Dr Emma Cunningham, a specialist in women's health and founder of Dr Emma Clinics.
She explained that Ozempic is primarily used to lower blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes by stimulating insulin secretion, reducing glucagon secretion (a hormone that increases blood sugar), and slowing down gastric emptying, which helps regulate blood sugar levels. This will make for interesting reading for PCOS sufferers who know all too well that insulin resistance is a significant part of the disorder.
Dr Cunningham explained: "In women with PCOS, insulin resistance is often a key factor in the development and progression of the condition. Insulin resistance can lead to increased insulin levels, which in turn can stimulate the ovaries to produce more androgens, worsening the symptoms of PCOS. By improving insulin sensitivity and reducing insulin levels, GLP-1 receptor agonists like Ozempic may help alleviate some of the symptoms of PCOS, such as irregular periods and excess hair growth."
Ozempic has also been shown to help aid weight loss, which in turn can also be beneficial for people with PCOS as it can help improve insulin sensitivity and reduce androgen levels.
The medication "mimics" the action of a hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) (Getty Images)Echoing this thought, Dr Shazia Malik, a consultant OBGYN and UK Medical Director at a leading gynaecological health company and virtual women's health clinic Daye, agreed. She says there is "early evidence" that Ozempic can help PCOS symptoms - primarily targeting excess weight and insulin resistance.
She said: "Ozempic shows promise in improving PCOS symptoms and overall metabolic health for these patients. Some women anecdotally report Ozempic helping regulate their cycles. However, more rigorous studies are still needed to fully understand the drug's effects."
It's important to note that Ozempic is not currently FDA or MHRA-approved for PCOS treatment, but losing weight is considered crucial for managing PCOS. An estimated 70% of obese or overweight patients with PCOS have decreased insulin sensitivity. This can lead to weight gain and difficulty losing weight, Dr Fiona MacRae from the Marion Gluck Clinic explains.
She said: "By addressing these underlying issues, Ozempic may help improve symptoms associated with PCOS and increase the chances of ovulation and fertility. While Ozempic may hold promise for women with PCOS, it is important to be aware of potential side effects.
"Common side effects of Ozempic include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and constipation. These effects are generally self-limiting. Around 1% of patients may develop more severe gastrointestinal disorders such as acute pancreatitis or gallstones. Other possible side effects include fatigue, palpitations and headache. Exacerbation of restless leg syndrome is reported and 0.1% will be allergic to the medication."
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If you have any concerns over PCOS, it's always recommended to speak to your GP. More information can be found here.
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