What it is, how it's diagnosed, and implications for fertility.
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (known as PCOS) is a condition where cysts develop on the ovaries. It can cause painful and irregular periods, or a total absence of periods, as well as lack of ovulation, excessive weight gain, miscarriage and infertility problems.
How Do I Know If I Have PCOS?
A laparoscopy (where a tiny camera is put through the abdominal wall) can be performed to see if there are cysts on the ovaries.
Vaginal ultrasounds can also be done (by placing a camera probe into the vagina) to check for ovarian cysts.
Blood tests can be done as women with PCOS often have raised testoserone levels (the male hormone) and androgens.
How Can I Get Pregnant If I Have PCOS?
If you're overweight you may be advised to try and lose weight as this will increase your chances of pregnancy.
Clomid tablets can be prescribed to induce ovulation and restore periods and these will be given over several months, unless you fall pregnant quickly.
Surgery can be done to remove the ovarian cysts and allow for ovulation, if the drug treatment isn't successful. Some women develop Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome from Clomid, which can be potientially life threatening, so surgery is the best option for them. However, there is a risk of adhesions from surgery, where scar tissue develops and this can be painful and can also interfere with fertility.
If you are prepared to delay starting a family, the contraceptive pill may help regulate your cycle prior to trying to concieve, so your doctor may suggest this as a starting point.
