Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

PCOS is a hormonal condition involving irregular or absent ovulation and often increased effects of male hormones. It can affect periods, skin, hair, fertility and metabolism. Treatment is tailored to symptoms and whether you want to become pregnant.

• Periods that are far apart, unpredictable or completely absent.
• Difficulty becoming pregnant because ovulation does not occur every month.
• Keep track of your periods and report having no bleeding for more than about three months without being pregnant.
• Choose exercise, sleep and eating habits you can maintain long term; health can improve even without weight loss.
• Make an appointment if you have persistently irregular periods, excessive hair growth or acne, or want to become pregnant but have not conceived.
• For urgent GP care outside office hours, call HAP 9252. Call Ambulance 912 only for an immediate threat to life.