A young woman has founded a support group for women with reproductive health problems, like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
Bethany Lewis, 18, is a trainee dental nurse from Weston Rhyn in Shropshire and was diagnosed with PCOS in April 2025.
A few months later she set up The Cysters Circle, which meets up periodically across the county in different towns to reach a wider audience.
PCOS causes painful and irregular periods, and the NHS estimates it affects up to one in 10 women in the UK. « [The circle was] really needed, not just for myself but for other people as well, » Ms Lewis said.
PCOS is a hormonal disorder that leads to ovaries producing large amounts of male sex hormones that interfere with the development and release of a woman’s eggs and can also affect periods and fertility.
Ms Lewis said her symptoms include « very heavy periods » and « dull pain that doesn’t go away, » meaning she often has to take « very strong painkillers. »
The circle supports women and girls with endometriosis, PCOS, or « any other hormonal and reproductive health conditions, » she said.
When she was first diagnosed in April, Ms Lewis said she « didn’t know anything about the condition, » educating herself using the internet.
« It’s been challenging mentally as well as physically, » she added.
« It’s very lonely as well, so it’s good to have the support in the group. »
The group’s first meeting last month had just two other attendees – but a few weeks later, at their next meet-up in Telford, eleven women took part.
« It’s a massive jump in comparison to our first one, and it’s nice to just start building that community, » Ms Lewis said.
Those attending share experiences, recommendations, and vent frustrations.
« We have quite a lot of resources from charities as well that we’re able to hand out, » Ms Lewis continued.
« It’s nice to sit there with people who actually understand what you’re going through. »
Her goal is to « support more women and girls, » adding that raising awareness is needed « not just locally in Shropshire, but around the UK ».
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