The UK's most complete GLP-1 guide
Every Question Answered. Every Side Effect Explained.
- How GLP-1 medications work
- Mounjaro vs Wegovy compared
- Injection instructions
- Side effects & solutions
- What to eat on treatment
- FAQs answered
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Weight Loss Supplements for PCOS: UK Options and Evidence
PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) often makes weight management challenging due to insulin resistance and hormonal imbalances. While supplements alone have limited evidence, several evidence-based approaches can support weight loss when combined with lifestyle changes. This guide covers prescription weight management options, NHS resources, and what the evidence actually shows about supplements for PCOS in the UK. Your GP can help you develop a personalised plan.
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Calculate Your BMI Instantly
Enter your height and weight below. Supports both imperial (stone & lbs) and metric (kg). Results include NHS category, healthy weight range, and ethnicity adjustments.
What Is BMI and Why Does It Matter?
Body Mass Index (BMI) is the most widely used screening tool for assessing whether your weight falls within a healthy range. Used by the NHS, GPs, and weight management services across the UK, BMI provides a quick snapshot of your weight relative to your height. The formula is simple: your weight in kilograms divided by your height in metres squared (kg/m²).
While BMI isn't a perfect measure — it doesn't account for muscle mass, bone density, or fat distribution — it remains the standard first step in identifying potential weight-related health risks including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, and certain cancers.
The NHS also recommends adjusted thresholds for people of South Asian, Chinese, or Black African heritage — a BMI of 23 or above is classified as overweight, and 27.5 as obese. Our calculator includes this adjustment as a one-click toggle.
What Does the Evidence Show About PCOS and Weight Loss?
Women with PCOS typically experience insulin resistance, meaning their bodies don't respond effectively to insulin — this drives weight gain and makes losing weight harder. Standard weight loss approaches often work less effectively without addressing this underlying issue.
Evidence-based approaches for PCOS weight loss include:
- Low glycaemic index (GI) diet — helps manage blood sugar and insulin levels
- Inositol supplementation — some clinical evidence for modest improvements in insulin sensitivity and weight
- Regular physical activity — both cardiovascular exercise and resistance training improve insulin sensitivity
- Prescription weight management medication — GLP-1 medications like Wegovy may help by improving insulin sensitivity
- NHS weight management services — available through your GP, including behavioural support and specialist advice
Our free BMI calculator can help you track whether your current weight falls in a healthy range, and you can use our progress tracker to monitor changes over time as you implement lifestyle modifications or consider medical options.
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How It Works
Three simple steps to understand your weight and take action.
Enter your height and weight in our free calculator. Get your BMI, NHS category, healthy weight range, and ethnicity-adjusted thresholds instantly.
If your BMI suggests you're overweight or obese, explore our GLP-1 calculators to project potential weight loss on Mounjaro or Wegovy.
Use our progress tracker to log your weight weekly, visualise your journey with charts, and stay motivated — all stored privately in your browser.
Free Weight Loss Tools & Guides
Everything you need to understand your weight, explore medication options, and track your progress — completely free.
Prescription Weight Loss Medication for PCOS
GLP-1 receptor agonist medications like Wegovy (semaglutide) are prescription-only weight management injections that may support weight loss in UK adults. Clinical trials showed that Wegovy helped participants lose an average of around 15% of their body weight — though individual results vary significantly.
For PCOS specifically, these medications may offer dual benefits: they support weight loss AND improve insulin sensitivity, which addresses the underlying PCOS mechanism. Access through the NHS typically requires referral to a tier 3 specialist weight management service. Private access is available through UK-licensed prescribers following a clinical assessment. Our GLP-1 weight loss calculator can help you explore potential outcomes at different doses, though a prescriber will assess suitability for your individual health.
NHS weight management for PCOS usually begins with tier 1 support — self-help resources, digital tools, and community programmes — followed by GP-led tier 2 interventions if needed. Tier 3 specialist services can provide multidisciplinary support including dietitian advice, exercise programmes, and consideration of prescription medication.
Before starting any supplement or medication, discuss with your GP, particularly if you're taking other medications like metformin (commonly used in PCOS) or hormonal contraceptives. They can assess your individual eligibility and monitor your progress. Use our weight converter to track your weight in both metric and imperial units, making it easier to follow NHS guidance.
- Dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist
- Up to 22.5% body weight loss (SURMOUNT-1)
- Weekly injection, dose escalation over 20+ weeks
- Available via private prescription in the UK
- Doses: 2.5mg → 5mg → 7.5mg → 10mg → 12.5mg → 15mg
- GLP-1 receptor agonist
- Up to 15–17% body weight loss (STEP trials)
- Weekly injection, 5-step dose escalation
- NHS & private prescription available
- Doses: 0.25mg → 0.5mg → 1mg → 1.7mg → 2.4mg
Mounjaro vs Wegovy: Head-to-Head
A side-by-side comparison of the two most popular GLP-1 weight loss medications available in the UK.
| Feature | Mounjaro | Wegovy |
|---|---|---|
| Drug class | Dual GIP/GLP-1 agonist | GLP-1 agonist |
| Active ingredient | Tirzepatide | Semaglutide |
| Avg. weight loss | 15–22.5% | 12–17% |
| Key trial | SURMOUNT-1 (2022) | STEP 1 (2021) |
| Max dose | 15 mg weekly | 2.4 mg weekly |
| Escalation period | 20–32 weeks | 16–20 weeks |
| Administration | Weekly injection (pen) | Weekly injection (pen) |
| NHS availability | Private prescription only | NHS & private |
| Approx. private cost | £150–£250/month | £150–£300/month |
| Common side effects | Nausea, diarrhoea, constipation | Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea |
Data sourced from SURMOUNT-1 and STEP 1 clinical trials. Costs are approximate and vary by provider. Always consult a prescriber.
Am I Eligible for Weight Loss Medication?
In the UK, eligibility for GLP-1 weight loss medications like Mounjaro and Wegovy is based on your BMI and overall health profile.
- BMI of 30 or above (obese)
- Age 18 or over
- No contraindicated conditions
- Committed to lifestyle changes
- BMI of 27 or above
- Plus type 2 diabetes
- Or high blood pressure
- Or obstructive sleep apnoea
Use our BMI calculator to check whether your BMI falls within the eligible range.
How We Built These Tools
Every calculator and guide on myweightcheck is built with accuracy and transparency in mind. Our BMI calculator uses the standard WHO formula with NHS-aligned category thresholds. Our GLP-1 projections are modelled on published clinical trial data from SURMOUNT and STEP studies.
All data stays on your device. We don't require sign-ups, and we don't store your health information on any server. Your progress tracker saves data locally in your browser using localStorage, so only you can see it.
We're based in the UK and our tools are designed specifically for UK users — supporting stone & lbs by default, referencing NHS guidelines, using NICE-approved medication data, and linking to GPhC-registered pharmacies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about BMI, weight loss medications, and our free UK tools.
Can supplements alone help with PCOS weight loss?
Supplements like inositol have modest evidence for supporting PCOS management, but evidence shows they work best combined with dietary changes and physical activity. Weight loss medications prescribed by your GP typically have stronger evidence for significant weight loss. Always discuss supplements with your GP before starting, as some may interact with PCOS medications.
What is the best diet for PCOS weight loss in the UK?
A low glycaemic index (GI) diet is recommended by NICE and the NHS for PCOS management. This means choosing foods that release energy slowly, reducing blood sugar spikes and supporting insulin sensitivity. The Mediterranean diet also has strong evidence for PCOS and cardiovascular health. Your GP can refer you to an NHS dietitian for personalised advice.
How does Wegovy help with PCOS weight loss?
Wegovy (semaglutide) is a GLP-1 injection that helps regulate appetite and blood sugar — this addresses both weight loss and the insulin resistance underlying PCOS. Clinical trials showed average weight loss of around 15% of body weight alongside lifestyle changes. It's prescription-only and requires clinical assessment by a licensed prescriber.
Can I access weight loss medication for PCOS through the NHS?
Yes, if you meet NHS eligibility criteria (BMI 30 or above, or BMI 27–29.9 with weight-related health conditions like PCOS-related complications). Your GP can refer you to a tier 3 specialist weight management service. Availability and waiting times vary significantly by region — ask your GP about options in your area.
Should I use our BMI calculator if I have PCOS?
Yes, BMI remains a useful screening tool even with PCOS. However, remember that BMI has limitations — it doesn't account for muscle mass or where fat is stored. Your GP can provide personalised interpretation of your BMI in the context of your PCOS and overall health. Use our free BMI calculator above to get your current figure.
Ready to take control of your weight loss journey?
Start with a free BMI check, explore your GLP-1 options, or begin tracking your progress today. No sign-up. No cost. Just results.