PCOS Awareness Month

September is Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) Awareness Month. The aim of this is to increase awareness of, and education about, PCOS among the general public, women, girls, and healthcare professionals.

10-20% of women in Ireland may have PCOS. PCOS is a common yet often misunderstood condition that affects millions of women worldwide.PCOS is a leading cause of infertility because it can prevent ovulation or make it irregular. As it affects many women, here’s what you need to know when it comes to trying to get pregnant.

PCOS At A Glance

The symptoms of PCOS can vary widely from person to person, but common signs include:

1. Irregular periods: Many women with PCOS experience infrequent, irregular, or absent menstrual cycles due to problems with ovulation.

2. Excess hair growth (Hirsutism): Increased levels of androgens can cause excessive hair growth on the face, chest, and other areas.

3. Acne and oily skin: Hormonal imbalances often lead to acne and skin problems.

4. Weight gain: Many women with PCOS struggle with weight gain, especially around the abdomen.

5. Thinning hair or hair loss: PCOS can cause thinning hair or male-pattern baldness.

6. Polycystic ovaries: As the name suggests, some women with PCOS develop enlarged ovaries with multiple small cysts visible on an ultrasound.

7. Infertility: PCOS is a leading cause of infertility because it can prevent ovulation or make it irregular.

Causes of PCOS

The exact cause of PCOS is not fully understood, but several factors contribute to its development:

1. Genetics: PCOS tends to run in families, suggesting a genetic link. If your mother or sister has PCOS, you may be at higher risk of developing it.

2. Insulin resistance: Many women with PCOS have insulin resistance, which means their bodies have difficulty using insulin effectively. This can lead to higher insulin levels, contributing to weight gain, increased androgen production, and difficulty with ovulation.

3. Hormonal imbalances: High levels of androgens disrupt the normal functioning of the ovaries, preventing ovulation and causing other symptoms like acne and hair growth.

4. Inflammation: Low-grade inflammation in the body may contribute to the production of androgens in women with PCOS.

PCOS And Getting Pregnant

For women with PCOS, the concept of starting a family can feel like it comes with extra challenges. Many women with PCOS struggle to conceive naturally – or experience a significant delay – due to the absence of a reliable, trackable menstrual period as a consequence of a reduction in ovulation, which is why seeing a specialist early on in your fertility journey is key. 

Although not knowing when – or if – you are ovulating can slow the fertility process down a little, however infertility for those with PCOS can usually be overcome. For example, specialists can stimulate steady ovulation with the right medication. 

Often the first step is a simple ovulation check which in some cases may include a blood test at the clinic, that will indicate whether ovulation is occurring. If ovulation is erratic or non-existent an ovulation-inducing drug may be prescribed, or the doctor may choose to use a closely monitored injectable or, in more difficult cases, IVF. 

The chances of getting pregnant naturally (and quickly) may be lower for those with PCOS, but lifetime fertility is not impaired. 

For personalised treatment, support and to kickstart fertility discussions, speak to your GP or one of our fertility specialists.