PCOS & Fertility

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal condition that affects up to one in five women of reproductive age, which can make it more difficult to fall pregnant naturally.

PCOS affects a woman’s fertility because the ovaries of women diagnosed with PCOS contain small cysts or follicles which may not produce eggs capable of being fertilised.

What is Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome?

A woman has polycystic ovaries if an ultrasound scan of the ovaries indicates many small follicles. The ovaries may also be larger than normal. However, having polycystic ovaries alone does not mean you have PCOS.

PCOS is diagnosed if a woman is experiencing two out of the three following symptoms:

  • Infrequent ovulation and irregular menstrual cycles
  • Hormonal changes, such as acne or unwanted hair growth that may be associated with increased androgen levels
  • The appearance of polycystic ovaries on ultrasound

What are the Symptoms of PCOS?

Due to imbalances of hormonal production, the most common symptoms of PCOS include:

  • Absent menses or irregular menstrual cycles (the average cycle is 28 days long)
  • Increased facial and body hair
  • Acne
  • Weight gain
  • Difficulty becoming pregnant

Women with PCOS may find that they gain weight easily. If this is the case, your fertility specialist may offer some assistance to lose weight, which can improve your chances of conceiving naturally or with treatment.

Diagnosis and Treatment of PCOS

Our panel fertility specialists under Virtus Fertility Centre Fertility Singapore can offer detailed advice in relation to the diagnosis and treatment of PCOS.

If blood tests and an ultrasound scan do confirm that you are experiencing PCOS and that it is affecting your fertility, there are a number of treatment options available. The most common treatment is Ovulation Induction which stimulates ovulation and increases the chance of spontaneous pregnancy.

Our panel fertility specialists under  Virtus Fertility Centre Singapore have expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of PCOS to help you fall pregnant. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us today.