Issue Nine: Sep/Oct '22

making lifestyle changes, such as eating a healthy diet, managing stress and exercising regularly. For Melis, it was electrolysis that helped her to manage the excess hair growth – the symptom she found most challenging. “Having excess hair does affect my self- esteem. I do get feelings of depression sometimes,” admits Melis. And she isn’t alone. “PCOS can be associated with an increased risk of diagnosis of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and obsessive- compulsive disorder,” confirms Nicki, who advises seeking medical advice and support – something which helped Melis greatly. “I recommend talking to others who are also suffering with PCOS. It does help to cope with the symptoms knowing that you’re not alone,” says Melis. “The two main symptoms I experience are irregular periods and excess hair on the face and body” 3/ MURAD Rapid Relief Spot Treatment 15ml / £22 4/ BEYOU Monthly Patches 15pcs / £26.61 3 4 INSIDE OUT