Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a condition which affects up to 27% of women during their childbearing years. It is characterised by the presence of ovarian cysts, higher levels of male hormones and irregular periods. Women with PCOS may also experience symptoms such as hairiness or balding, weight gain, acne and difficulty conceiving.

Your gynaecologist will be able to diagnose for PCOS if you have at least 2 of the following symptoms: high androgen (male hormone) levels, ovarian cysts and irregular periods. PCOS can be confirmed by a pelvic exam, blood tests and ultrasound, and can be managed with contraceptive pills to induce a regular menstrual cycle or fertility treatments to increase chances of conceiving.