Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
When hormones, cycles and fertility don’t feel balanced
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a complex hormonal and reproductive condition that affects menstrual cycles, ovulation, hormone levels, fertility and — for some women — metabolic health. It can be confusing and difficult to diagnose without careful, specialist assessment.
What PCOS can cause
PCOS may cause:
Difficulty ovulating
Heavy or unpredictable bleeding
Difficulty conceiving
Acne or excess hair growth (androgen excess)
Insulin resistance or weight changes
Fatigue or mood symptoms
Not every woman has all features — and having “many follicles” on ultrasound alone does not mean you have PCOS.
How PCOS is diagnosed
According to international evidence-based guidelines (formerly known as the Rotterdam criteria), PCOS is considered when at least two of the following are present:
Irregular or absent ovulation
Clinical or biochemical signs of androgen excess (e.g. acne, excess hair growth)
Polycystic ovarian morphology on ultrasound
This diagnosis is made after excluding other causes of similar symptoms, such as thyroid disease or hormone-secreting tumours.
Why specialist assessment matters
PCOS is not one condition — it is a spectrum.
Some women have mainly cycle and ovulation problems, others more hormonal symptoms, others metabolic features, and some primarily fertility concerns.
A thorough evaluation — including clinical history, hormone testing and advanced pelvic ultrasound — helps clarify where you sit on this spectrum and what needs attention.
My training in advanced gynaecological ultrasound and reproductive medicine (Master of Reproductive Medicine) allows me to interpret ovarian patterns and hormone results with a depth that goes beyond routine imaging — helping distinguish true PCOS from similar presentations and guide management appropriately.
Management options
There is no single treatment for PCOS — care is personalised based on your symptoms and goals.
Options may include:
Lifestyle and metabolic support (exercise, diet, insulin resistance management)
Hormonal treatments to regulate cycles
Ovulation induction when pregnancy is a goal
Targeted treatments for acne or excess hair growth
Education and shared decision-making, aligned with international PCOS guidelines
How PCOS affects fertility
PCOS is one of the most common causes of difficulty ovulating, and therefore a frequent contributor to subfertility. However, many women with PCOS conceive naturally or with the right support.
Assessment typically includes:
Ovulation tracking and hormone profiling
Ultrasound assessment of ovarian and uterine anatomy
Evaluation for other contributing factors such as endometriosis or fibroids
Treatment may involve:
Ovulation induction
Fertility planning
Lifestyle and metabolic support
Assisted reproductive techniques when needed
How I can help
I bring together specialist fertility training and advanced ultrasound interpretation to assess and manage PCOS in a way that is evidence-based, personalised, and supportive.
My goal is to help you understand your diagnosis, reduce uncertainty, and build a plan that supports both your immediate wellbeing and long-term reproductive and metabolic health.
Related services
Book a PCOS assessment in Auckland
If you are experiencing irregular cycles, symptoms of PCOS, or difficulty conceiving, you can book a consultation online.