What is PCOS?
In PCOS, the ovaries make more male-type hormones (androgens) than usual. The ovaries may also have many small fluid-filled sacs (follicles) that do not grow into a mature egg. Because of this, ovulation (release of an egg) may happen rarely or not at all.
PCOS is one of the most common reasons for irregular periods and difficulty getting pregnant.
Common signs
- Irregular periods, very late periods, or no periods for months
- Extra hair on the face, chest or tummy
- Acne or oily skin
- Weight gain, or finding it hard to lose weight
- Thinning hair on the head
- Darker patches of skin on the neck or underarms
Not every woman has all of these. Some women with PCOS have regular periods and few signs.
How PCOS affects fertility
To get pregnant, an egg needs to be released each month. In PCOS, this often doesn't happen regularly. Fewer eggs released means fewer chances to conceive each year. It can also be hard to know when your fertile days are.
How it is diagnosed
Your doctor will ask about your periods and look for the signs above. Usually two of these three findings confirm PCOS:
- Irregular or absent ovulation
- Signs of high male-type hormones (on blood tests or on the body)
- Many small follicles seen on an ultrasound scan
Other conditions, such as thyroid problems, are checked too. See our fertility tests page.
Treatment options
- Lifestyle changesFor women who are overweight, losing even a small amount of weight can help periods become regular.
- Ovulation inductionTablets or injections help the ovaries release an egg. This is often the first treatment. Learn more
- IUIOvulation medicines combined with placing washed sperm in the uterus at the right time. Learn more
- IVFIf simpler treatments don't work. Women with PCOS need careful monitoring during IVF to avoid over-reaction of the ovaries. Learn more
Things you can do
- Eat regular, balanced meals with less sugar and fewer refined flour foods
- Be active most days, for example a 30-minute brisk walk
- If you are overweight, aim for gradual weight loss
- Keep a note of your period dates to show your doctor
- Don't stop or start any medicine without your doctor's advice
Common questions about PCOS
Can I get pregnant if I have PCOS?
Yes. Many women with PCOS get pregnant, some naturally and many with simple treatment to help ovulation.
Will PCOS go away?
PCOS is a long-term condition, but its symptoms can be managed well with lifestyle changes and medicines.
Do thin women get PCOS?
Yes. PCOS can affect women of any weight. Weight loss helps many women, but not every woman with PCOS is overweight.
Do I need IVF for PCOS?
Usually not at first. Most women start with ovulation medicines. IVF is considered if these don't work or if there are other problems.