PCOS Treatment in Dubai: Hormones, Weight and Metabolic Health
Dr. Hecham Harb
Consultant Endocrinologist & Medical Director
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PCOS treatment depends on your symptoms and goals, whether that means more regular periods, managing your weight or planning a pregnancy. At Endocare, our endocrinologists provide PCOS treatment in Dubai and will assess your hormones, blood sugar and weight. Treatment can combine lifestyle support with medication, such as metformin, the combined oral contraceptive pill or, for some patients with a higher weight, a GLP-1 medication. In 2026, PCOS was renamed polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS).
- The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that PCOS affects 10% to 13% of women of reproductive age and that up to 70% of them are undiagnosed.
- An international consensus published in The Lancet in May 2026 introduced polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS) as the new name for PCOS.
- The NHS lists weight gain or difficulty losing weight among the symptoms of PCOS, alongside irregular periods, excess hair growth and acne.
- Insulin resistance is common in women with PCOS. It often accompanies metabolic conditions that can affect weight management.
- The 2023 international PCOS guideline recommends assessing blood sugar at diagnosis and every one to three years after that, depending on individual risk.
- For adults with PCOS and a BMI of 25 or above, the same guideline states that metformin should be considered for weight and metabolic outcomes.
- Our endocrinologists treat PCOS at our Dubai clinic, with blood tests and body composition analysis as part of the assessment.
01 What is PCOS?
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal condition that can affect metabolism, weight, periods and fertility, and is often associated with insulin resistance. Because PCOS involves both hormones and metabolic health, an endocrinologist can play an important role in diagnosing and treating the underlying hormonal and metabolic issues. PCOS affects around 1 in 10 women of reproductive age, yet many women remain undiagnosed.
Monash University, which led the international consensus, announced the new name polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS) in May 2026. The new name reflects the hormonal and metabolic features of the condition. It no longer refers to ovarian cysts, which are not required for the diagnosis.
Monash University describes a three-year transition, with the new name fully implemented in the 2028 update of the international guideline. The NHS already uses the new name.
02 Symptoms of PCOS
The NHS lists the main symptoms of PCOS as:
- irregular periods or long gaps between periods
- excess hair growth on the face or body
- thinning hair on the scalp
- weight gain or difficulty losing weight
- oily skin and acne
- difficulty getting pregnant
- thick, dark patches of skin on the neck or armpits
Not every woman with PCOS has all of these symptoms. Some women have few noticeable symptoms and learn that they have PCOS during tests for another reason.
The World Health Organization fact sheet on PCOS notes that women with PCOS may experience anxiety, depression and eating disorders. It also describes PCOS as a leading cause of infertility. Symptoms such as excess hair growth, acne and weight changes can affect body image and quality of life.
03 How PCOS affects weight and metabolism
Insulin resistance means the body’s cells respond less to insulin, so the pancreas produces more. In PCOS, higher insulin levels can increase the production of androgens, the hormones linked to excess hair growth and acne.
Insulin resistance often accompanies metabolic conditions that can affect weight management. Weight gain can also be associated with greater insulin resistance. Our pages on metabolic syndrome and hormonal imbalance cover two related areas in more detail.
PCOS can affect women of any body weight. The international guideline states that, in those with higher weight, weight management can be associated with significant clinical improvements.
Weight alone does not show how much of it is fat or muscle. At Endocare, body composition analysis is included free of charge at every consultation. Body composition analysis estimates body fat, muscle mass and body water. Repeated measurements help your endocrinologist understand how your body is changing beyond the number on the scale.
04 Who should be checked for PCOS?
We recommend an assessment if you have irregular or absent periods, excess hair growth, acne that is difficult to treat, or difficulty getting pregnant. The NHS notes that you may be more likely to have PCOS if a close relative has it or you are from an Asian background.
The 2023 International Evidence-based Guideline for the Assessment and Management of PCOS describes prevalence as broadly similar across world regions. It also notes that prevalence may be higher in the South East Asian and Eastern Mediterranean regions.
PCOS is also linked to a higher risk of prediabetes and type 2 diabetes. Dubai’s Essential Benefits Plan covers a diabetes screen every three years from age 30, and yearly from 18 for adults assessed as high risk.
05 How PCOS is diagnosed
The WHO describes PCOS as diagnosed by the presence of at least two of three features, once other causes have been excluded. The table below sets out the three features and how your endocrinologist assesses each one.
| Feature | How it is assessed |
|---|---|
| Irregular or absent periods | Your menstrual history, as a sign that ovulation is irregular |
| Higher androgen levels | Signs such as excess hair growth or acne, or a blood test |
| Polycystic ovaries | An ultrasound scan or, in adults, a blood test for anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) |
Ovarian cysts are not required for the diagnosis. The NHS notes that an ultrasound scan is only done for women over 18.
Your endocrinologist will also look for other conditions that can cause similar symptoms, such as thyroid disease or a raised prolactin level. Blood tests can check your hormone levels, blood sugar, insulin resistance and cholesterol.
06 How PCOS is treated
The NHS states that there is no cure for PCOS, but treatments and lifestyle changes can help the symptoms. Your endocrinologist will tailor treatment to your symptoms, your metabolic health and whether you are planning a pregnancy.
Lifestyle, nutrition and activity
The international guideline recommends healthy eating and physical activity for all women with PCOS, to support general health, body composition and weight management. It describes lifestyle management as a core focus of PCOS care.
The US Physical Activity Guidelines set the target at 150 to 300 minutes a week of moderate-intensity aerobic activity, plus muscle-strengthening work on at least two days. Endocare’s lifestyle coaches and our clinical nutritionist will build these recommendations into a plan that fits your routine. Adequate protein and resistance training can help preserve muscle while you lose weight.
Medication for PCOS
Metformin is a type 2 diabetes medication that can improve the body’s response to insulin. The guideline states that metformin should be considered for adults whose BMI is 25 or above, to improve weight and metabolic measures.
The combined oral contraceptive pill can regulate periods and reduce excess hair growth and acne. The NHS also lists spironolactone and eflornithine cream among the treatments for unwanted hair growth.
For women with PCOS and a higher weight, the guideline states that anti-obesity medications, including GLP-1 receptor agonists, could be considered alongside lifestyle changes. Options available in the UAE include Mounjaro (tirzepatide), the Wegovy injection (semaglutide), the Wegovy pill and Foundayo (orforglipron). Our article on Mounjaro for PCOS explains its safety and eligibility in more detail.
Weight loss medication is generally considered for patients with a BMI of 30 or above, or 27 or above when weight-related health conditions are present. Eligibility also depends on the approved use of each medication. Your endocrinologist can assess whether weight loss medication is suitable for you and discuss the benefits and risks.
The guideline advises effective contraception during GLP-1 treatment when pregnancy is possible, because safety data in pregnancy are lacking. The prescribing information for Mounjaro also notes that it can reduce how well oral contraceptive pills work. It advises a non-oral or barrier method for four weeks after starting and after each dose increase.
Planning a pregnancy with PCOS
Treatment for PCOS-related infertility can include medicines that stimulate ovulation. The WHO also lists surgery and in vitro fertilisation (IVF) among the options. If you are planning a pregnancy, your endocrinologist can discuss a referral to a fertility specialist.
The UK Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) advises stopping semaglutide at least two months, and tirzepatide at least one month, before trying to conceive.
07 Long-term health and monitoring in PCOS
The NHS notes that PCOS can sometimes increase the risk of type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, fatty liver disease and womb cancer. Regular monitoring can help identify these risks early.
The international guideline recommends a cholesterol check for all women with PCOS, regardless of age or weight. It also recommends checking blood sugar at diagnosis and again every one to three years. Screening for depression and anxiety is part of the same guideline.
In the UAE, metabolic risk is common. The UAE National Health Survey 2017 to 2018, published by the Ministry of Health and Prevention, found obesity in 30.6% of women aged 18 to 69.
08 How Endocare treats PCOS in Dubai
Your first appointment is a full medical assessment, not simply a prescription visit. Your endocrinologist will review your symptoms, your menstrual and medical history and any recent blood tests. They will then discuss your goals for treatment with you.
Where possible, your first appointment takes place in person at Endocare’s Dubai clinic, as the physical examination and body composition analysis cannot be completed remotely. Monthly follow-up appointments can be held in person at the clinic or online.
If PCOS is affecting your mood, we recommend raising it at your appointment. Insurance coverage for weight loss treatment in the UAE varies by policy and is often limited, so we recommend checking your individual coverage before starting treatment. Our care coordinators can also help you in this process.
09 FAQ
Can PCOS be cured?
There is no cure, but PCOS can be managed. Treatment aims to control symptoms, protect metabolic health and support fertility where needed.
What kind of doctor is best to see for PCOS?
Several doctors can diagnose and treat PCOS, including endocrinologists, gynaecologists and general practitioners with experience in the condition. An endocrinologist can be particularly helpful when PCOS affects your weight, insulin resistance or blood sugar.
Does PCOS qualify you for Mounjaro?
Not on its own. PCOS alone is not a reason to prescribe Mounjaro. Eligibility depends on your BMI and on whether you have a weight-related condition such as prediabetes or high blood pressure.
Can you have PCOS without being overweight?
Yes. PCOS can occur at any body weight. Treatment then focuses on your symptoms and metabolic health.
Is PCOS now called PMOS?
Yes. An international consensus published in May 2026 renamed PCOS as polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome, or PMOS. The name has changed, but the condition is the same.
Do I need a referral to see an endocrinologist for PCOS in Dubai?
No. In the UAE, you can see an endocrinologist directly, with no GP referral needed, for concerns related to hormones, weight, metabolism or blood sugar. If you plan to use health insurance, we recommend checking your policy before you book, because some insurers require a referral or pre-approval.
At our Dubai clinic, your endocrinologist will assess you, review your blood tests and discuss a treatment plan for your symptoms and goals. You can book a consultation with one of our endocrinologists on +971 4 285 3885 or send us a message on WhatsApp.
Book Your Consultation
- Specialist consultation
- Personalized Coaching
- Body Composition Analysis