Fertility challenges linked to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can feel overwhelming – emotionally, physically and mentally. At Kind iVF, we understand that behind every test, scan and treatment plan is someone longing for answers, reassurance and hope. 

Our approach is designed to make you feel supported, informed and truly heard so you can take each step with confidence. 

Understanding PCOS: Causes and Symptoms

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal condition, affecting around 1 in 10 women in the UK.¹ It is diagnosed when at least two of the following are present: irregular ovulation (leading to irregular periods), raised “male” hormones (androgens), and/or a polycystic ovarian appearance with many immature follicles rather than true cysts.²

PCOS isn’t just a physical condition – it can also affect mental health, self-confidence and emotional wellbeing, particularly when it impacts plans for starting a family. For this reason, many people choose to explore fertility support earlier in their journey, so they can feel informed, supported and hopeful about the road ahead.

How PCOS Affects Fertility

PCOS can make the journey to conception more challenging, but understanding the underlying factors can help you feel more in control. The main fertility issue in PCOS is anovulation – when the ovaries don’t release an egg regularly – which can make natural conception difficult.

Hormonal imbalances, such as elevated androgen levels and higher-than-average Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH), can also affect how your ovaries respond to stimulation and impact fertility.³ While high AMH often indicates more follicles, in PCOS it can also signal a greater risk of ovarian hyperstimulation during IVF.

At Kind iVF, we take the time to understand your individual hormonal profile and overall wellbeing. By doing so, we can create a personalised treatment plan that supports your body, maximises your chances of conception and helps you feel informed every step of the way.

PCOS Fertility Treatment: From Assessment to Personalised Care

Your journey towards conception with PCOS begins with a thorough fertility assessment. This often includes hormone profiling, ultrasound scans and AMH testing to give a clear picture of your reproductive health. AMH testing is particularly valuable, helping your care team understand how your ovaries may respond to medication or IVF and guiding a personalised treatment plan.

Treatment for PCOS-related infertility usually combines lifestyle changes, medication, and, when needed, advanced reproductive techniques:

Lifestyle and Medication

For many, achieving and maintaining a healthy BMI (ideally ≤ 30 kg/m²) can help restore regular ovulation.⁴ First-line medications, such as clomifene citrate (Clomid) and letrozole, stimulate ovulation, with letrozole increasingly preferred due to higher pregnancy and live birth rates.⁵

Surgical Approaches

If medications are not effective, laparoscopic ovarian drilling (LOD) may be considered. This minimally invasive procedure reduces androgen-producing tissue in the ovaries, helping to trigger ovulation. ⁶

IVF and Advanced Care

When first-line treatments haven’t achieved the results you hope for, IVF can provide an effective path to conception. At Kind iVF, each treatment package is designed to be efficient and streamlined, without ever compromising on the quality of care or the advanced technology we use.

During IVF, eggs are carefully collected, fertilised in our state-of-the-art laboratory, and one is then transferred to the womb. Women with PCOS often respond well to IVF, but we know every patient is unique. That’s why our specialists adjust stimulation protocols to your individual hormonal profile, reducing the risk of ovarian hyperstimulation and maximising your chances of a successful, safe pregnancy.

Above all, we prioritise your wellbeing. Our team combines clinical expertise with compassionate support, guiding you through each step with clear information, reassurance, and personalised advice. 

Find out more about our fertility treatment packages here. 

Taking the Next Step Towards Parenthood with Kind iVF

Facing PCOS can feel daunting, but with the right medical care, personalised planning and emotional support, the chance of conception can be high. At Kind iVF, your PCOS fertility treatment journey begins with a compassionate consultation and a thorough fertility assessment, ensuring every step is tailored to your individual needs.

You can take the next step in your journey in a way that suits you:

• Book a consultation with our fertility experts to explore your options and testing.
  
• Reach out to our team with any questions—online, by phone, or in person.
  
• Join one of our open day events to get a feel for our clinics and meet the team.
  

Explore your fertility treatment options and take your next step towards building your family.

References:

¹ Polycystic ovary syndrome | NHS

² Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) factsheet | NIH

³ The role of anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) in ovarian disease and infertility | PMC

⁴ The impact of female obesity on the outcome of fertility treatment | PMC

⁵ Clomiphene citrate or letrozole as first-line ovulation induction drug in infertile PCOS women | PMC

⁶ Polycystic ovary syndrome PCOS treatment | NHS