PCOS and Menopause

PCOS is often considered a long-term condition, and while symptoms can change over time, menopause does not necessarily make them disappear altogether.

In the UK, the average age of menopause — defined as 12 months without a period — is around 51. Research suggests that women with PCOS may experience menopause a little later, on average 2–4 years after women without PCOS. However, it can sometimes be harder to recognise perimenopause in women with PCOS, as irregular or missed cycles are already common.

How PCOS and menopause symptoms can overlap

Some of the changes associated with perimenopause can mirror PCOS symptoms, such as irregular cycles, weight gain around the middle, insulin resistance, or increased hair growth. Because oestrogen and progesterone naturally decline during perimenopause, women with PCOS — who may already have lower levels of these hormones — may find some symptoms feel more noticeable in the short term.

One potential positive is that androgen levels also tend to decline with age, and some women with PCOS may see improvements in acne, hirsutism, or even more regular cycles as they transition through perimenopause.

Research suggests hormone changes can bring about differences such as:

• Menstrual changes: Women with PCOS may notice their cycles becoming shorter and more regular, while those without PCOS may experience increasing irregularity.
• Hair and skin: Acne and hirsutism may improve, although thinning hair can still persist.
• Insulin sensitivity: Insulin resistance may continue into menopause, which can be linked with higher risk of type 2 diabetes and changes in weight.
• Cardiovascular health: Some studies suggest that women with PCOS have higher levels of inflammatory markers during and after menopause, which may be associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke.

The bigger picture

Menopause does not “cure” PCOS, but hormonal changes during this life stage can shift which symptoms are more prominent. While ovulation naturally comes to an end (which resolves cycle-related symptoms), other aspects of PCOS may persist or evolve.

Continuing to focus on nutrition, movement, stress management, and lifestyle habits that support hormone balance and overall health can be valuable at this stage of life. It’s also important to keep up with regular GP health checks.

If you’d like to explore how nutrition and lifestyle support may help during PCOS and menopause, you’re welcome to book a free call with us.

Please note: we do not diagnose or treat PCOS or menopause. Nutrition and lifestyle support can complement medical care, but diagnosis and treatment should always be discussed with your GP.