What is PCOS?
PCOS stands for polycystic ovary syndrome.
According to the Teladoc Women’s Health Guide | PDF, it is the most common hormonal disorder in people who menstruate of child-bearing age.
The guide goes on to say: “During each cycle, a mature egg is released from one of the ovaries, available for fertilization by a male sperm – this process is known as ovulation. If the egg is not fertilized, it is passed during the next period.
People with PCOS have hormonal imbalances that do not always signal for the ovary to ovulate and release an egg, instead the egg remains in the ovary as a small cyst. These small cysts can release hormones of their own, again contributing to further imbalance.”
What are the symptoms of PCOS?
According to Johns Hopkins, the symptoms of PCOS can include:
- A period that is irregular
- Too much of a hormone called androgen, which can lead to excess hair on the face and / or body
- Polycystic ovaries, which means the ovaries contain “many follicles containing immature eggs may develop around the edge of the ovary”
What causes PCOS?
The exact cause of PCOS is unknown. According to the National Institute of Health, it is possible that it is caused by a combination of factors, including genetics and environment.
Are there treatments available for PCOS?
According to the Teladoc Women’s Health Guide, there is no cure for PCOS and management of the condition depends on symptom severity and fertility goals.
The guide also says, “people with PCOS are more likely to develop type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease – your doctor may also start you on medication to help mitigate that risk.”
How can PCOS impact your employees’ wellbeing?
PCOS can cause infertility. The fertility treatments that may be required to build a family can be physically, financially and emotionally tough.
The treatment of symptoms and any fertility challenges they could experience may result in people living with PCOS having to pay out-of-pocket costs for healthcare that may not be covered by provincial or territorial plans.
You can support your employees who have PCOS with open communication, flexible work policies and a benefits plan that helps them manage their specific health concerns.
Offer a benefits plan
Offering a workplace benefits plan can help employees cover the cost of medications and other treatments that can help with symptoms – but it can do so much more.
You can also offer support by providing:
Access to an employee assistance program (EAP) that provides help with programs for physical activity and stress management counselling.
A health plan that provides access to mental health services and a drug plan that covers medications.
A health care spending account or wellness account that offers coverage flexibility for individual needs.
Access to a virtual health care service like Consult+ to answer non-urgent medical concerns, provide advice and write prescriptions without having to leave home or work. Learn more about our virtual health offering by speaking with your Canada Life representative.
Access to Teladoc Medical Experts with expert medical advice from the comfort of your employee's homes. On top of trying to understand a new diagnosis of PCOS, services through Teladoc Medical Experts like Personal Health Navigator service can assist in finding the right resources for your employees.
You could also:
Make information on PCOS available on your intranet.
Create policies, programs and prevention strategies to support workplace mental health and psychological safety for everyone in the organization.