News by Subject

Female hairiness health warning

(BBC 17/04/2009)

Excessive hairiness in women is not just a cosmetic problem but is likely to be a sign of an underlying medical condition, say UK doctors in a report. Five to 15% of women have excess hair, and a hormone disorder the most likely cause in many cases, the doctors said. Women with the problem should not be afraid to seek medical advice, the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists report urged. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the cause in 70% to 80% of cases.

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Weight loss op

(BBC 11/04/2009)

Kristy Tenio struggled with infertility for years after being diagnosed with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). But then she decided to pursue a radical treatment - weight loss surgery. Kristy says she has never felt better Kristy. Looking at photos of her now - over 8st (51kg) lighter - it is almost impossible to tell that you are looking at the same person. She says she has never felt better, despite the radical nature of the surgery.

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'Fat gene' can damage fertility

(BBC 17/03/2009)

Women who inherit a gene that ups the risk of obesity also run a higher risk of fertility problems due to polycystic ovaries, experts have discovered. Half of white Europeans carry a copy of the FTO variant - which is the clearest genetic clue we have to explain why some people are prone to weight gain. Now experts from Oxford and Imperial College London believe the same gene may cause polycystic ovary syndrome.

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Ovary problem 'may aid athletes'

(BBC 21/04/2008)

A common cause of menstrual disorders may offer an advantage to some female athletes, a scientist says.

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