PCOS specialist Melbourne

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)

Compassionate care for every stage of your polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) journey.

Fibroid Specialist Melbourne

What is PCOS?

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a complex hormonal condition that is thought to affect between 5 and 15% of women of reproductive age. However, the number may be even higher, as up to 70% of women with the condition worldwide remain undiagnosed.

It occurs in women who have a combination of insulin resistance and elevated androgen (male-type hormone) levels. They develop small, hormonally active follicles on each ovary that are cyst-like in appearance. This may prevent follicles (which contain an egg cell) from growing and maturing as they should.

PCOS has been associated with multiple medical issues (including abnormal periods and excess hair growth), which may make it challenging to manage. Create Fertility specialises in PCOS and has helped many women with this condition to achieve their health and reproductive goals.

Fibroid symptoms

PCOS symptoms

The symptoms of PCOS are many and varied; however, some of the more common symptoms include:

  • Irregular or absent menstruation 
  • Heavy periods 
  • Excessive weight gain with a high BMI 
  • Excessive facial and body hair growth 
  • Scalp hair loss 
  • Excessive acne 
  • Difficulty falling pregnant 
  • Mood changes, including depression and anxiety 
  • Fatigue 
  • Insulin resistance

Women with PCOS may be more prone to developing diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

Does PCOS affect fertility?

While not everyone with PCOS will experience fertility issues, it has been known to cause issues for some women. 

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A woman who is not regularly ovulating or not ovulating at all may find it harder to fall pregnant naturally.

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High androgen levels may stop follicles from developing properly, leading to a build-up of immature eggs in the ovaries. It’s okay to have some, but too many may make it hard to conceive.

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High insulin levels may affect the menstrual cycle and ovulation.

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Being overweight may further disrupt hormone levels, which may negatively impact fertility.

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Some studies have indicated that PCOS may lead to a higher rate of miscarriage .

Treatment options for PCOS

There are several ways that you may be able to manage your PCOS symptoms and their impact. Our team will create a comprehensive treatment plan based on your specific symptoms and their severity.

Our treatment options include:

  • Lifestyle modification
  • Weight reduction
  •  Medications (such as the contraceptive pill, progesterone tablets, anti-androgens, or Metformin if insulin resistance is an issue)

 

For women also wanting to fall pregnant, there are several potential treatment options, including:

  • Cycle and ovulation tracking
  • Ovulation stimulation medications (such as Letrozole or Clomid)
  • Hormonal injections (FSH)
  • Assisted reproductive technologies (such as IUI and IVF)

 

While there are surgical options for inducing ovulation available, they are usually reserved for patients who have not had success with less invasive approaches and who have a lot of follicles in their ovaries.

What are uterine fibroids

Your PCOS questions answered

While the exact cause of PCOS is unknown, several factors may contribute to its development. These include genetics (as it tends to run in families) and insulin resistance. Inflammation and lifestyle factors (such as poor diet, lack of exercise, and high stress levels) may contribute to insulin resistance and/or exacerbate symptoms.

Diagnosis typically occurs when at least two of the following symptoms are present: 

  • The ovaries are polycystic on ultrasound (generally 25 or more per ovary) 
  • High levels of androgens (male hormones) in the blood 
  • Menstrual dysfunction (such as a lack of periods, irregular periods, and/or lack of ovulation)

PCOS may be associated with some long-term health risks, including insulin resistance, increased risk of developing diabetes, cholesterol and  high blood pressure, or cardiovascular disease. The absence of periods long term, can lead to cancer of the lining of the uterus (endometrial cancer).  Early diagnosis of PCOS is important, as it may allow for symptom management and prevent long-term disease from developing.

Yes, it may increase the risk of complications during pregnancy. These may include early miscarriage, gestational diabetes, pre-eclampsia, premature delivery, and caesarean delivery. Women with PCOS may require extra care before, during, and after pregnancy, so it is important to discuss your circumstances with your fertility clinic.

Discover more from Create Fertility

Our specialists

Our clinic is completely owned and operated by a team of experienced fertility specialists, here to help you.

Fertility treatments

Many people experience fertility struggles, but there are ways we may be able to help you fall pregnant.

Early steps

Understanding your fertility health may give you confidence as you start your journey to pregnancy.

Get support from health professionals experienced in managing PCOS

PCOS can be complex, but getting the right care shouldn’t be. At Create Fertility, our team provides evidence-based guidance designed to help you manage symptoms and understand your fertility potential.

We are committed to supporting you through every stage, from diagnosis to treatment and family planning decisions. With experienced specialists and a warm, patient-first approach, we aim to help you move forward with clarity.

Contact us to book a consultation and start your journey today.

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Factors That Shape Your Fertility Webinar & Q&A

Planning for a baby, or already trying? Learn what can influence your fertility.

Date: Wednesday 19 November 2025

Time: 7:00 PM AEDT

Location: Live via Microsoft Teams

Cost: Free

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