Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

If associated with complications such as high blood pressure, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease or obstructive sleep apnoea, refer to the relevant entry.

If otherwise eligible, accept.

Cardiovascular Disease
Diabetes Mellitus
Fertility
Blood Pressure - High
Liver Disease
Sleep Apnoea

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine condition affecting women. Clinical features can include irregular or infrequent periods, excess facial or body hair (hirsutism), hair loss, weight gain, acne and difficulties getting pregnant. The exact cause of PCOS is unknown but the symptoms are related to hormone imbalance, often including increased testosterone activity. Many individuals with PCOS also have raised insulin levels and insulin resistance, putting them at risk of diabetes and metabolic syndrome. Conditions such as cardiovascular disease, sleep apnoea and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease are also associated with PCOS.

A diagnosis of PCOS does not prevent someone from donating. Drugs used to treat PCOS can include the combined oral contraceptive pill, co-cyprindiol, progestogens and anti-diabetic medications such as metformin. Patients may sometimes be prescribed spironolactone to treat acne, hirsutism or hair loss. Provided they are otherwise eligible, donors on any of these medications can be accepted. Care should be taken to assess eligibility against the relevant guideline if the donor has any PCOS-associated complications.

This is a new entry.