Have you been told that having PCOS means you’ll never get pregnant? This is a common misconception.

What is PCOS? 

PCOS, otherwise known as polycystic ovary syndrome, is the most common hormonal condition in women of reproductive age. It’s not just about cysts, it’s a metabolic and reproductive disorder in which three things can happen (though you only need 2 out of these 3 to reach a diagnosis of PCOS). 

  1. So firstly, you might have higher levels of androgens, which means your ovaries produce higher levels of male hormones, like testosterone. This might mean that you struggle with acne or excess body hair.
  2. Secondly, (and partly due to the higher testosterone levels) you may have irregular periods. This is because you don’t release an egg regularly due to disordered hormone signals from the brain. 
  3. And finally, your ovaries might look ‘polycystic’ on ultrasound. This means that your ovaries might become enlarged and contain many little fluid-filled sacs called follicles, which surround the eggs (but are not actually the same as cysts).

 Why do you have PCOS?

PCOS

Ovary with typical PCOS follicle pattern around the outside

 First things first, it’s not your fault. You didn’t cause this. While the exact ‘cause’ is a mystery, doctors know it comes down to a few key factors. 

  • Firstly, genetics. We know that if your mum or sister has PCOS, then you’re more likely to have it. It’s in the DNA and may have been triggered when you were growing in your mother’s womb (due to the slightly higher testosterone levels in your mum’s body because of her PCOS). 
  • Next, insulin resistance. A lot of women with PCOS have this. Your body makes insulin, but can’t use it effectively so the body, in turn, pumps out more. High insulin levels trigger your ovaries to make more testosterone and you end up in a vicious cycle. 

What about fertility? 

PCOS makes conception harder due to the irregular cycles, hormone imbalances and lack of ovulation. But it does NOT mean becoming pregnant is impossible. 

There are two ways to tackle fertility.

  1. Lifestyle changes. These can consist of factors such as managing stress, doing more exercise, maintaining a healthy weight for your height and eating a healthier diet (cutting out ultra processed foods and focusing more on a mediterranean-style diet), which will in turn improve your insulin sensitivity. Just 10% weight loss, if you are overweight, can be enough to restore natural ovulation (ever heard of mounjaro babies?).
  2. Medical support – which is where your doctor comes in. This is a crucial part. If you’re already trying for a baby, your treatment should focus on ovulation. Your body needs to be releasing those eggs regularly, and this is often done with specific medications. 

So when you go in for that appointment, here’s the one question you need to ask: 

  •  “Based on my medical history, ultrasound and blood tests, what is the best strategy for inducing ovulation for me?”

 You’re your own best advocate. You deserve a clear path forward, and don’t let PCOS take away your hope of having a baby. Please do not hesitate to get in touch should you have any questions or concerns.

Please contact Mandy, my secretary, on 01159 662111 or email her at mandy.banbury@circlehealthgroup.co.uk if you would like to book an appointment.