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Few things in life are as sensitive as fertility. Maybe you’ve known for years that you have Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), but now you’re actively trying to get pregnant and wondering if you’ll succeed. Or maybe you’ve been struggling to conceive and have now discovered that you have PCOS.
At Saige Health and Wellness, we understand how deeply personal and emotional these concerns can be. Our team provides compassionate, collaborative care designed to support you at every stage of your reproductive journey.
What is PCOS?
Polycystic ovary syndrome is a hormonal condition that affects how your ovaries work. It is linked to an imbalance of hormones, including higher levels of androgens (male hormones) and insulin resistance.
PCOS involves a number of symptoms, which may include:
- Irregular or absent periods
- Difficulty with ovulation
- Acne
- Excess hair growth
- Weight changes
- Increased risk of long-term conditions such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
For some women, PCOS symptoms are mild. For others, they can be more disruptive - not only physically, but also emotionally, particularly when trying to conceive.
Polycystic ovary syndrome is marked each September, aiming to raise awareness of PCOS and support those affected by it.
How does PCOS affect your fertility?
Fertility is often one of the greatest concerns for women with PCOS. Because PCOS can interfere with ovulation, it may make conception more challenging.
PCOS may affect fertility in several ways:
- Disrupted ovulation: Many women with PCOS do not ovulate regularly, making it harder to predict fertile windows.
- Hormonal imbalance: Higher androgen levels can affect the menstrual cycle and ovulation quality.
- Egg development: PCOS may interfere with the way eggs mature and are released.
- Related health factors: Insulin resistance, weight changes or endometrial changes can further influence fertility.
These challenges can feel discouraging, but it is important to know that having PCOS does not mean infertility. Many women with PCOS go on to have healthy pregnancies, some with lifestyle changes alone, others with fertility support.
Researchers at the University of Queensland found that women with PCOS are more likely to need fertility treatment than women without the condition. Encouragingly, though, women with PCOS have the same birth rate as other women undergoing fertility treatment.
Treatment and management options
There is no single approach to PCOS or fertility - every woman’s journey is unique. That’s why at Saige Health and Wellness, we take the time to understand your personal circumstances, listen to your concerns and recommend options that may suit you.
Fertility management strategies for PCOS may include:
- Lifestyle support: Guidance around nutrition, physical activity, and weight management to support hormonal balance.
- Medications: To help regulate menstrual cycles or stimulate ovulation when needed.
- Minimally invasive surgery: In some cases, keyhole surgery may be recommended to help improve ovarian function.
- Fertility treatments: Ovulation induction or In-Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) may be provided through specialist referral and collaborative care.
- Ongoing monitoring and support: Regular follow-up to adapt treatment and provide reassurance throughout your journey.
How can we help?
At Saige, we work to help you understand what is happening in your body and provide clear, supportive pathways forward.
You may be just starting to think about children or you may be actively trying to conceive.
Whichever stage you’re at, our goal is to walk alongside you with compassion, providing care that addresses not only physical health but also the emotional challenges that can come with PCOS and fertility concerns.
Book an appointment.
Disclaimer
All information is general and not intended as a substitute for professional advice. Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks.
References
- Healthdirect, Polycystic ovary syndrome, https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/polycystic-ovarian-syndrome-pcos, [Accessed 2 September 2025]
- Jean Hailes for Women’s Health, How does PCOS affect fertility and pregnancy? https://www.jeanhailes.org.au/health-a-z/polycystic-ovary-syndrome/how-does-pcos-affect-fertility-and-pregnancy#fertility-and-pcos, [Accessed 2 September 2025]
- University of Queensland, Women with PCOS can stress less about fertility, https://news.uq.edu.au/2023-12-13-women-pcos-can-stress-less-about-fertility, [Accessed 2 September 2025]
