Bolton tops the UK for access to care for a hormonal condition that is a leading cause of infertility, according to a new study.

About one in ten women have polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), according to the NHS.

And a study by Fertility Family, a PCOS supplement provider, found that Bolton is first in the country for easy access to healthcare for the condition – rating a soaring 89 out of 100.

PCOS is an incurable syndrome that can cause painful and irregular periods, ovarian cysts, male pattern baldness and excess body hair.

And the World Health Organization said it is a leading cause of infertility.

The study found that Bolton has four fertility clinics per every 100,000 women within an easy quarter mile radius of the city centre. And eight endocrinologists.

It also had almost 40 GP surgeries available within two miles of it.

Warrington ranked second in accessibility followed by Wigan, London, and Leicester.

(Image: Fertility Family PCOS Healthcare Index)
 

PCOS is a hormone condition where a person produces excess male hormones or androgens and has enlarged ovaries, according to the NHS.

It often goes undiagnosed – and can cause health problems like type 2 diabetes and high cholesterol.

And patients have encountered difficulties getting a diagnosis.

Over half of PCOS patients have felt misunderstood by healthcare professionals, according to a Fertility Family survey last year.

And two in three people waited over a year for their formal diagnosis.

Furthermore, one in ten people had to wait over five years to receive treatment, and seven per cent of respondents waited over 10 years.

Dr Gill Lockwood, Consultant at Fertility Family, says:

“If you think you may have PCOS, even if your symptoms are quite mild, it is important to speak to your GP.

“Many disorders can mimic PCOS symptoms such as thyroid disease and overproduction of the Prolactin hormone.

“It is important to get the right diagnosis.

“Having PCOS is a lifetime diagnosis, but if you maintain a normal weight, do regular exercise, and avoid high-fat and high-sugar foods in your diet, you can expect a normal, healthy life.

“It is a complex and very common condition affecting up to 10 per cent of all women.

“Its symptoms can be quite mild, such as irregular periods and ‘teenage acne’ that seems to last beyond the teens,  to really severe symptoms such as a total absence of periods, severe excess hair growth and significant obesity.

“Some of these may not be due to PCOS and this is why we recommend seeing your GP to get a proper diagnosis and help.

“Internet ‘experts’ and online influencers may be well-intentioned, but nothing can substitute a discussion with a qualified doctor.”