A health watchdog is recommending that women diagnosed with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) should receive annual National Health Service (NHS) checks, according to new draft guidelines. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has outlined recommendations for suspecting, assessing, and diagnosing PCOS, emphasizing that the condition should not be overlooked in post-menopausal women.
PCOS is believed to be more prevalent in women of Black, Asian, and mixed ethnicity, and healthcare professionals are advised to consider this when evaluating symptoms. Living with PCOS can significantly impact mental health and quality of life, with depression and anxiety being common. For women planning a pregnancy, the guidelines also suggest advice on weight management, diet, nutrition, exercise, sleep, and mental well-being.
Marie Anne Ledingham, a consultant clinical advisor for women's and reproductive health at NICE, described the recommendation for a simple annual review as a significant step. "This new guideline will help improve consistency of care, increase awareness of the condition, and support earlier diagnosis and management," she stated.
The draft guidelines are open for public consultation from July 1 to August 11, 2026, with NICE inviting feedback from healthcare professionals, patients, and the public. The final guideline on PCOS is expected to be published in December 2026.