Milton Keynes has been ranked among the worst for accessible polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) healthcare in the UK.

A study by Fertility Family, a PCOS supplement provider, assessed the availability of fertility clinics, registered endocrinologists, and GP surgeries in towns and cities across the UK.

Milton Keynes scored just 12.04 out of 100, placing it second-to-last in the study.

The city has seen a population increase of 15.3 per cent between 2011 and 2021, more than double the overall increase for England at 6.6 per cent.

Despite this growth, the study found that there are only two fertility clinics within a 25-mile radius, equating to one clinic per 100,000 residents.

(Image: Fertility Family)

This means many women have to travel further for specialised care.

The city also has only eight GP surgeries and one registered endocrinologist, providing limited access to patients with the condition.

Dr Gill Lockwood, a consultant at Fertility Family, said: "If you think you may have PCOS, even if your symptoms are quite mild, it is important to speak to your GP.

"Many disorders can mimic PCOS symptoms such as thyroid disease and overproduction of the Prolactin hormone so it is important to get the right diagnosis."

The study also highlighted that over half of PCOS patients have felt misunderstood by healthcare professionals.

The 2023 PCOS Awareness Survey by Fertility Family found that 68 per cent of people waited over a year for their formal diagnosis.

One in ten people had to wait over five years to receive treatment, while seven per cent of respondents waited over ten years.

Dr Lockwood added: "Having PCOS is a lifetime diagnosis, but if you maintain a normal weight, do regular exercise, and avoid high-fat and high-sugar foods in your diet, you can expect a normal, healthy life."

Milton Keynes follows Peterborough, which was ranked last with a score of 10.19.

Dr Lockwood concluded: "It is a complex and yet very common condition affecting up to 10 per cent of all women.

"Some of these symptoms may not be due to PCOS and this is why we recommend seeing your GP to get a proper diagnosis and help with your future health."

The top spot in the study was claimed by Bolton, Greater Manchester, with a score of 89.35 out of 100.

The city has 13 fertility clinics, equating to four clinics for every 100,000 residents, 39 GP surgeries, and 10 registered endocrinologists.