Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), recently re-named as Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS),  is one of the most common hormonal disorders affecting women of reproductive age. 

But while PCOS can make it more difficult to conceive, it doesn’t necessarily mean you are infertile - many women with PCOS go on to conceive naturally or with appropriate support.

Understanding how PCOS affects the body is the first step towards improving fertility outcomes.

What is PCOS?

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal condition that affects the ovaries and reproductive hormones.

It is typically characterised by:

• Increased production of androgen ("male") hormones

• Multiple small fluid-filled follicles (often called ovarian cysts)

• Disrupted ovulation

• Hormonal imbalance

The exact cause of PCOS isn't fully understood but it is thought to result from a combination of genetic and environmental factors

Why was it renamed to PMOS?

Earlier this year, PCOS was renamed to PMOS (Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome) after a 2026 global consensus process involving patients and clinicians determined the old name, PCOS, was misleading since it centers on "cysts"/ovaries when the condition is really a whole-body hormonal and metabolic disorder.

Common Symptoms of PCOS:

Symptoms can vary significantly from person to person and may include:

• Irregular or absent menstrual periods

• Heavy menstrual bleeding

• Difficulty ovulating

• Difficulty falling pregnant

• Excess facial or body hair (face, chest, abdomen or back)

• Acne

• Oily skin

• Dandruff

• Weight gain

• Difficulty losing weight

• Fatigue

• Sleep disturbances

Not everyone with PCOS experiences the same symptoms, and some women may have PCOS despite having regular menstrual cycles and androgen hormone levels that fall within the normal range.

What Causes PCOS?

While there isn't one single cause, several factors are believed to contribute, including:

• Insulin resistance

• Hormonal imbalances

• Chronic inflammation

• Genetics

• Lifestyle factors

These factors often interact with one another and can influence both hormone production and ovulation.

How Does PCOS Affect Fertility?

PCOS can impact fertility in several ways.

1. Irregular Ovulation

Many women with PCOS experience irregular menstrual cycles, making it difficult to predict when ovulation occurs and therefore harder to time intercourse for conception.

2. Ovulation Problems

PCOS can interfere with normal egg development.

Instead of producing and releasing a mature egg each month, the ovaries may develop immature follicles that do not successfully ovulate.

This can lead to:

• Irregular periods

• Absent periods

• Reduced opportunities for conception

3. Hormonal Imbalances

Women with PCOS often have:

• Elevated androgen hormones (such as testosterone)

• Lower levels of oestrogen and/or progesterone

These hormonal changes can interfere with healthy ovulation and reduce fertility.

4. Insulin Resistance

Insulin resistance is common in people with PCOS.

High insulin levels stimulate the ovaries to produce more androgen hormones, which can further disrupt ovulation and reproductive hormone balance.

5. Associated Health Conditions

Women with PCOS may also be more likely to experience other conditions that can influence fertility, including:

• Obesity

• Thyroid disorders

• Endometriosis

Addressing these underlying health issues is often an important part of improving fertility outcomes.

Can You Get Pregnant With PCOS?

Yes.

Having PCOS does not automatically mean you are infertile.

Many women with PCOS conceive naturally, while others benefit from targeted treatment and personalised care that addresses the underlying causes affecting their fertility.

When Should You Seek Help?

Consider seeking professional support if:

• You've been trying to conceive naturally for 6–12 months without success.

• You're preparing for pregnancy and want to optimise your fertility.

• You've undergone assisted reproductive treatments without achieving pregnancy.

• You have symptoms suggestive of PCOS and want a thorough assessment.

A comprehensive fertility investigation can help identify the underlying factors affecting your reproductive health and guide an individualised treatment plan.

Book an Appointment with one of our practitioners here