Enmore Regional Hospital hosts mini health booth in observance of PCOS Awareness Month

On Friday, the Enmore Regional Hospital hosted a mini health booth in recognition of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) Awareness Month, aimed at educating and empowering the public on this common but often overlooked health condition.
The initiative provided community members with vital information about PCOS, its causes, symptoms, and the importance of early detection and effective management.

The hospital’s dedicated medical team, including doctors on site, engaged with attendees by answering questions, offering personalised guidance, and ordering ultrasounds where necessary to support diagnosis.
Participants also had the opportunity to check their Body Mass Index (BMI) and blood pressure, creating a holistic health experience.
A strong focus was placed on lifestyle management, particularly diet and nutrition, which play a critical role in balancing hormones and improving overall health for women living with PCOS.
Attendees received practical dietary tips and options, along with educational brochures and flyers to reinforce the information shared.
This initiative was designed to raise awareness and provide women with the knowledge and tools they need to better understand and manage PCOS.
The initiative is part of Enmore Regional Hospital’s ongoing commitment to advancing community health through education, prevention, and accessible care.
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), PCOS is a common hormonal condition that affects women of reproductive age. It usually starts during adolescence, but symptoms may fluctuate over time.

PCOS can cause hormonal imbalances, irregular periods, excess androgen levels and cysts in the ovaries. Irregular periods, usually with a lack of ovulation, can make it difficult to become pregnant. It is a leading cause of infertility.
PCOS is a chronic condition and cannot be cured. However, some symptoms can be improved through lifestyle changes, medications and fertility treatments.
The cause of PCOS is unknown, but women with a family history or type 2 diabetes are at higher risk.
The condition affects an estimated six to 13 per cent of women of reproductive age, and up to 70 per cent of cases are undiagnosed.

The prevalence of PCOS is higher among some ethnicities, and these groups often experience more complications, in particular related to metabolic problems.
The biological and psychological effects of PCOS, particularly those related to obesity, body image and infertility, can lead to mental health challenges and social stigma.
In recent years, health organisations have increased efforts to raise awareness about PCOS during National Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome Awareness Month in September each year.
This campaign raises awareness about the condition and encourages those who may be suffering from the disease to seek medical advice for diagnosis and treatment options.
The aim is to educate people about PCOS and support those living with the condition through education programmes and online resources such as webinars, podcasts, forums, and social media groups.
In Guyana, a local group, Cysterhood Support – Guyana, was launched in 2019 after Dr Kimberly Manbodh, also a patient with PCOS, recognised a significant gap in awareness and resources in Guyana.
Also a social media presence, the organisation aims to provide support and guidance to women dealing with PCOS.
Through the non-profit, volunteer-led organisation, Dr Manbodh has since organised educational sessions, health fairs, and walks, all designed to raise awareness and offer support.
To get involved with the group, persons can follow Cysterhood Support – Guyana on Facebook, participate in events or volunteer their time or support to help the organisation.
In addition, ensure that your healthcare provider knows if you suspect you may have PCOS so that they can work with you on finding a treatment plan to help manage your symptoms.