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  Jean Hailes for Women's Health
  Health Consumer Organisation

  Founded in 1992, Jean Hailes for Women's Health reflects the enduring legacy that Dr Jean Hailes made to women’s health. Jean had a far-sighted vision ... View profile

  Not all women with PCOS will have fertility problems, but high levels of androgens (male hormones) and insulin can affect the menstrual cycle. Ovulation (the release of a mature egg from the ovary) can stop completely, or can occur irregularly. This can make it more difficult for women with PCOS to conceive naturally, and some women may also have a greater risk of miscarriage.
   
  However, this does not mean that all women with PCOS are infertile. Many women with PCOS have children naturally without any extra medical infertility treatment. Other women with PCOS can fall pregnant and have children with medical assistance.
   
  As being overweight exacerbates infertility in PCOS, one of the most important approaches to improve fertility is to prevent weight gain, exercise regularly and lose weight if overweight. See Managing PCOS on our website for more tips on improving fertility. Reply to this post  |  Report
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  Jean Hailes for Women's Health
  Health Consumer Organisation

  Founded in 1992, Jean Hailes for Women's Health reflects the enduring legacy that Dr Jean Hailes made to women’s health. Jean had a far-sighted vision ... View profile

  Due to high levels of androgens (male hormones) and insulin, the monthly cycle of ovulation and menstruation is often disrupted in women with PCOS. Although some women with PCOS will still have regular periods, most will experience some changes to their cycle. The periods may be irregular (cycles defined as eight or less menstrual cycles per year or menstrual cycles longer than 35 days) or may stop altogether. As menstrual cycles lengthen, ovulation may stop entirely or only occur occasionally. Some women with PCOS may also experience heavier or lighter bleeding during their menstrual cycle.
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