Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is estimated to affect 1 in 10 UK women. The condition affects ovarian function, ovulation, hormone levels, and the regularity of menstrual cycles.
In women with PCOS, the ovaries enlarge and develop multiple small fluid-filled sacs, known as follicles. The follicles are underdeveloped and often unable to release an egg, which causes irregular or missed periods.
PCOS is typically associated with irregular or absent periods, higher levels of male hormones, difficulty conceiving, and changes to the appearance of the ovaries. PCOS can develop at any stage after puberty begins.
At LivingCare, we understand that symptoms can be frustrating and sometimes distressing. Our consultants provide assessment and support for women concerned about PCOS at our locations across Sheffield and Leeds.
Diagnosing PCOS often involves a consultation, physical examination, blood tests and imaging. These investigations help assess hormone levels, menstrual patterns and the structure of the ovaries.
Your consultation at LivingCare starts with a discussion about your symptoms, menstrual cycle, medical history and any fertility concerns. Your consultant may then recommend further investigations to help confirm or rule out PCOS.
Investigations may include:
A routine examination where the doctor checks the pelvic organs, including the vagina, cervix, uterus and ovaries.
Blood tests can assess hormone levels, thyroid function, fertility markers and general health.
An ultrasound scan produces images of the uterus, cervix, ovaries and surrounding pelvic organs using sound waves.
A specialised pelvic ultrasound where a small probe is placed inside the vagina to produce clearer images of the womb, ovaries and cervix.
MRI scanning produces highly detailed images of pelvic organs and surrounding tissues using magnets and radio waves.
The consultant may also discuss lifestyle advice to support hormonal health. For women considering pregnancy, the consultant can advise on pre-conception planning to optimise health and fertility before trying to conceive.
Assessment helps identify whether symptoms are from PCOS or another underlying condition.
Your consultant may recommend an investigation if you experience:
PCOS can affect reproductive and metabolic health. With an early assessment, we can help identify the problem and guide the right care and advice.
Without appropriate management, PCOS is linked to insulin resistance, weight gain, metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and endometrial hyperplasia caused by irregular menstrual cycles.
Your care pathway at LivingCare is designed to provide reassurance, accurate investigation, and coordinated follow-up care.
Before Your Appointment
Before your consultation, your health care team may ask you to complete a questionnaire about your menstrual cycle, symptoms and medical history.
During Your Appointment
Your consultant will review your symptoms and medical history in detail. They may recommend a pelvic examination, and can arrange blood tests or imaging to assess hormone levels and ovarian structure.
After Your Appointment
Once all investigations are complete, your consultant will review the results and explain the findings.
You may receive advice on lifestyle changes, symptom monitoring, or further investigations where appropriate. If fertility is a concern, your consultant may discuss pre-conception planning and ongoing care.
Early investigation can help identify PCOS and other hormonal conditions sooner, allowing appropriate management and support. Understanding the cause of symptoms can help women take a more informed and proactive approach to their health.
Assessment and testing can help:
Recovery time varies depending on the investigations and tests.
Most diagnostic procedures, such as blood tests and ultrasound scans, require little to no recovery time, so you can get back to normal activities shortly afterwards.
Your consultant will advise if any additional investigations require recovery time.
LivingCare provides fast access to specialist women’s health investigations and experienced consultant care. Patients can book appointments without a referral, either self-paying or using private medical insurance.
Our consultant-led service uses advanced diagnostic equipment to support accurate investigation and assessment. With convenient locations across Sheffield and Leeds, LivingCare offers rapid access to appointments so you can begin investigating your symptoms without unnecessary delays.
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You can self-pay for treatment at LivingCare or use your medical insurance. Click here to learn more.
Symptoms vary between individuals but may include irregular or absent periods, difficulty ovulating, acne or oily skin, excessive hair growth, weight gain, and hair thinning.
Anyone who is concerned about PCOS or who has already been diagnosed and would like further assessment, testing, or support.
Blood tests can check hormone levels, thyroid function, fertility markers such as AMH, iron levels, vitamin levels and general health. They help support diagnosis and guide appropriate care.
Most procedures are safe and cause minimal discomfort. Some examinations may cause mild pressure or cramping, but are usually quick and well tolerated.

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Speak to our teamYou can receive this treatment at any one of the locations below.
Your healthcare journey in 4 easy steps
Get in Touch
Call us on Leeds 0113 2494655 or Sheffield 0114 7005811 or use our online booking form to send your enquiry. Let us know your preferred appointment type, either virtual or face to face, and we will work to find a time that suits you.
We Arrange Your Appointment
If you filled out our online booking form, one of our team will contact you within 2 hours with available appointment options. Once your appointment is booked, you will receive an email confirmation with all the details you need.
Attend Your Appointment
Attend your appointment at your chosen time, either virtually or in person, with one of our highly qualified consultants. If your appointment requires a written report, this will be prepared and sent to you within 48 hours.
Aftercare and Follow-Up
If you need any further tests, treatment or follow-up, we will help arrange these for you. If you require a copy of your report or images, please let us know and we will send these promptly.
Your healthcare journey in 4 easy steps
Get in Touch
Call us on Leeds 0113 2494655 or Sheffield 0114 7005811 or use our online booking form to send your enquiry and we will work to find a time that suits you
We Arrange Your Appointment
If you filled out our online booking form, one of our team will contact you within 2 hours with available appointment options. Once your appointment is booked, you will receive an email confirmation with all the details you need.
Attend Your Appointment
Attend your appointment at your chosen time with highly qualified clinicians. If your appointment requires a written report, this will be prepared and sent to you within 48 hours with the option to upgrade to 24 hours.
Aftercare and Follow-Up
If you need any further tests, treatment or follow-up, we will help arrange these for you. If you require a copy of your report or images, please let us know and we will send these promptly.
You can receive this treatment from one of the consultants listed below.
Explore the various options available for this treatment.
With our self-pay service, there are no waiting lists - consultations are offered within 24 hours, with treatment within a week. All costs, including tests or scans, are quoted upfront with no obligation to proceed. Visit our Prices page for full details.
If using medical insurance, contact your provider to confirm coverage for all treatment stages before your first appointment. You’ll need a referral letter from your GP for a private procedure at The LivingCare Group. Once you have it, either you or your GP can book your first appointment with us.