Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)

PCOS is an imbalance of hormones that affects women and is characterised by the production of excess androgens or male hormones. Some of its symptoms include obesity, the development of excessive hair typically on the face, chest and back (hirsutism) and acne. In more serious cases, PCOS is associated with infertility as it disrupts the menstrual cycles and can cause anovulation (absence of ovulation).

There is also a higher incidence of preeclampsia, gestational diabetes and pregnancy-induced hypertension occurring in pregnant women with PCOS.

Not all women with PCOS will present with symptoms so about 50% never get diagnosed. Fortunately, most of the symptoms can be treated and possible fertility treatments for PCOS include:

• Oral ovulation induction medication
• Laparoscopic ovarian drilling surgery to induce ovulation
• Infertility treatment like Superovulation Intra-Uterine Insemination (SO-IUI) and In-Vitro Fertilisation (IVF)