Kristine Stacke
Verity London Fundraiser
Fundraising for Verity The Polycystic Ovaries Self Help Group
Story
We're fundraising for Verity as they are the only UK charity supporting those with PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome). They are run entirely by volunteers and rely on fundraising to keep going. Help us help them and find out more about PCOS below:
Polycystic ovaries (PCO) are very common, affecting around 1 in 5 (20%) women and AFAB individuals. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is also very common, affecting 1 in 10 (10%) women and AFAB individuals, although this can vary from country to country.
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS):
- affects millions of women and AFAB individuals in the UK and worldwide
- runs in families
- is one of the leading causes of fertility problems in women
- if not properly managed, can lead to additional health problems in later life
- can have an impact on appearance and self-esteem
PCOS symptoms include:
- irregular periods, or a complete lack of periods
- irregular ovulation, or no ovulation at all
- reduced fertility – difficulty becoming pregnant
- unwanted facial or body hair (hirsutism)
- oily skin, acne
- thinning hair or hair loss from the scalp (alopecia)
- weight problems – being overweight, rapid weight gain, difficulty losing weight
- depression and mood changes