HEALTH
TROUBLE CONCEIVING?
BY DR JACKSON NDHLOVU, OBSTETRICIAN AND GYNAECOLOGIST
REALISING THERE MAY BE DIFFICULTIES CONCEIVING A BABY CAN BE DEEPLY DISTRESSING FOR MANY WOMEN.
Discover how polycystic ovary syndrome affects fertility with guidance from Dr Jackson Ndhlovu. He explains common symptoms, practical lifestyle adjustments, and medical options for women struggling to conceive.
PCOS is a complex hormonal condition that affects ovulation, the process by which the ovary releases an egg about two weeks before the next menstrual period.
“ This can cause irregular or absent periods, which do not follow a regular cycle of between 25 and 35 days. Tests will usually show that those affected have higher levels of male hormones, such as testosterone.”
Dr Ndhlovu explains that the ovaries of those with PCOS are dotted with many small cysts, which cause their hormonal imbalance.
“ This makes it difficult for women to monitor their fertile window, which is when they should be able to conceive.”
According to Dr Ndhlovu, fifteen to twenty per cent of South African women may experience infertility, but it is still possible for many of them to become mothers.
“ The good news is that this cause of infertility can often be managed to some extent, making pregnancy possible,” Dr Ndhlovu says.
SIGNS TO LOOK OUT FOR
Dr Ndhlovu says the signs of PCOS often emerge during adolescence.“ As well as irregular or absent periods, patients may notice some weight gain. They may develop acne and have more body hair than other girls.”
He points out that PCOS doesn’ t always present the same pattern of symptoms in all women.“ Even if your periods are regular and your weight is within normal parameters, you may still find it difficult to become pregnant because of PCOS.”
50 INBOUND SA / FEBRUARY 2026