NEW HOPE FOR PCOS

NEW research has revealed that Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), the most common cause of female infertility, may be caused by a hormonal imbalance before birth.

The study, completed by the French National Institute of Health and Medical Research, offers fresh hope for women struggling to conceive as an effective treatment option may be on the horizon.

PCOS affects 5% to 10% of women, but the causes of the condition have long been a mystery. Symptoms include high levels of testosterone, ovarian cysts, irregular menstrual cycles and problems regulating sugar.

The research found that the syndrome may be triggered before birth by excess exposure in the womb to a hormone called anti-Müllerian hormone. According to the study, pregnant women with PCOS have 30% higher levels of anti-Müllerian hormone than normal. The researchers proved in mice that the syndrome was passed on during pregnancy and were able to cure the condition in mice. A drug trial is now set to begin in women later this year. Speaking about the study, Dr Bart Kuczera, consultant gynaecologist and fertility expert with Beacon CARE Fertility, said: ‘The researchers were able to reverse the effect of this hormone being passed on in mice using cetrorelix, a synthetic form of gonadotrophin, used in IVF. I look forward to seeing the outcome of the drug trial, which may lead to greater treatment options down the line.’