September is PCOS Awareness Month, a time to shine a light on a condition that affects 1 in 10 women and people assigned female at birth of reproductive age. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a complex hormonal disorder, and while it can affect fertility, it is manageable with the right knowledge, care, and support.
At The IVFN, we want to help you separate fact from myth, understand how PCOS may impact your reproductive health, and explore ways to optimise fertility and wellbeing.
What is PCOS?
PCOS is a hormonal condition characterised by a combination of features, which may include:
- Irregular periods – due to irregular ovulation or lack of ovulation.
- Excess androgens (male hormones) – which can lead to acne, facial or body hair growth.
- Polycystic ovaries – ovaries may contain many small follicles visible on an ultrasound.
Not all people with PCOS have all three features. The condition can vary widely, which is why individualised care is essential.
How Does PCOS Affect Fertility?
PCOS can make conception more challenging, mainly because irregular ovulation reduces the number of fertile cycles. However, it does not mean pregnancy is impossible:
- Many people with PCOS conceive naturally.
- Lifestyle interventions, such as achieving a healthy weight, regular physical activity, and balanced nutrition, can improve ovulation and fertility.
- Medical treatments, including ovulation induction medications like clomiphene or letrozole, can support conception.
PCOS and Overall Health
PCOS is not just about fertility. It can affect metabolic and hormonal health, so it’s important to address:
- Insulin resistance and weight management – which can increase the risk of type 2 diabetes.
- Cardiovascular health – including blood pressure and cholesterol monitoring.
- Emotional wellbeing – anxiety, depression, and body image concerns are more common in people with PCOS.
- A holistic approach that combines medical care, lifestyle adjustments, and mental health support is the most effective way to manage PCOS.
Lifestyle Tips for People with PCOS
- Balanced diet – focus on whole grains, lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats to support insulin sensitivity and hormone balance.
- Regular exercise – both cardio and strength training can improve insulin resistance and help regulate menstrual cycles.
- Sleep and stress management – poor sleep and chronic stress can worsen hormonal imbalance. Mindfulness, yoga, or therapy can be beneficial.
- Monitoring and support – regular check-ups with your GP, endocrinologist, or fertility specialist are key to managing PCOS effectively.
- Supplementation – evidence-based supplements such as Inofolic alpha that contain inorsitol’s have shown to improve symptoms.
PCOS and Fertility Treatments
If natural conception is challenging, fertility treatments can be highly effective:
- Ovulation induction – medications that stimulate egg release.
- Intrauterine insemination (IUI) – sometimes recommended if other factors are present.
- In vitro fertilisation (IVF) – often successful in people with PCOS, with careful monitoring to reduce the risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS).
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