Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), a hormonal disorder affecting millions of women globally, has found a passionate advocate in Sarah Afolabi-Olagoke, the founder of Tersly Foods. Through her personal journey with the condition, Sarah is empowering women to manage PCOS symptoms through nutrition, community support, and education.
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Sarah’s battle with PCOS, which includes missed periods, recurrent miscarriages, and the emotional toll of fertility challenges, shaped her mission to provide women with effective solutions. Her company, Tersly Foods, focuses on offering nutrient-dense products specifically aimed at helping women manage the complexities of PCOS.

While PCOS is commonly associated with fertility problems, the condition’s impact goes beyond reproductive health. Women with PCOS face an increased risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and mental health issues such as anxiety and depression.

“Managing PCOS is a journey that requires more than just medical interventions. It’s about embracing a healthier lifestyle and making informed choices,” Sarah explains. “At Tersly Foods, we are committed to offering products that help stabilize blood sugar, balance hormones, and improve overall well-being.”

Sarah’s focus on nutrition as a solution for PCOS has driven the development of Tersly Foods’ product line, which includes oat flour, rice flour, beans-based products, and gluten-free snacks. These products aim to regulate blood sugar levels and support hormonal health, key factors in managing PCOS symptoms.

Additionally, Sarah founded the Bloom with PCOS support group, a community where women can connect, share their experiences, and receive guidance on managing the condition through both medical and lifestyle approaches. The group is also working on launching the Bloom App, which will provide digital resources and virtual consultations, giving women access to expert advice while maintaining privacy.

In Nigeria, accessing proper diagnosis and treatment for PCOS remains a significant challenge. Many healthcare providers are not well-versed in recognizing the symptoms of PCOS, leading to delayed diagnoses and ineffective treatment plans.
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“I’ve experienced firsthand the frustrations of navigating the healthcare system here,” Sarah says. “That’s why I am so passionate about raising awareness and providing women with alternative solutions through nutrition and community support.”

Beyond fertility, PCOS increases the risk of serious health problems like heart disease, high blood pressure, and type 2 diabetes. Women with PCOS are also prone to mental health issues, including depression and anxiety, due to the emotional and social burdens associated with the condition.

“Through proper nutrition, exercise, and stress management, women can mitigate many of these risks,” Sarah emphasizes. “Tersly Foods is dedicated to empowering women with the tools to manage their health and live fulfilling lives.”

As someone who has faced multiple miscarriages and failed IVF treatments, Sarah understands the deep emotional strain of fertility challenges. Tersly Foods’ products are designed to help women improve their reproductive health, and the Bloom with PCOS group offers a safe space for Nigerian women to discuss their fertility struggles and receive support.

The upcoming Bloom App will also extend this support by offering virtual consultations and personalized nutritional advice.
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Sarah stresses the need for early education and awareness, especially for young women and their parents. Early detection of PCOS can lead to better management of symptoms and reduce the long-term impact on health.

“Parents and educators need to be proactive in discussing reproductive health with young girls,” she advises. “Irregular periods and other signs of hormonal imbalance shouldn’t be ignored.”

As September marks PCOS Awareness Month, Sarah Afolabi-Olagoke’s efforts through Tersly Foods and Bloom with PCOS are making strides in raising awareness and supporting women living with this condition. Her journey from personal struggle to advocacy is a powerful reminder that with the right tools, lifestyle changes, and support, women with PCOS can lead healthier, happier lives.
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