The egg is not able to grow in the tillsize required for pregnanciesit must be in the range of 18mm22mm. This abnormal growth of the egg causes most couples able to achieve parenthood.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (or polycystic ovarian syndrome – PCOS) is a complex hormonal condition. ‘Polycystic’ literally translates as ‘many cysts. This refers to the many partially formed follicles on the ovaries, which each contain an egg. These rarely grow to maturity or produce eggs that can be fertilized.

Women with PCOS commonly have high levels of insulin that don’t work effectively, or male hormones known as ‘androgens’, or both. The cause is not fully understood, however, family history and genetics, hormones, and lifestyle play a role. Insulin resistance is present in up to four out of five women with PCOS.

Women who have a mother, aunt, or sister with PCOS are 50 percent more likely to develop PCOS. The condition is also more common in women of Asian, Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander, and African backgrounds.

PCOS is relatively common, especially in infertile women. It affects 8 to 13 percent of women of reproductive age (between late adolescence and menopause). Almost 70 percent of these cases remain undiagnosed.

If a fallopian tube is blocked or damaged, women may have fertility problems. A blocked or damaged fallopian tube can prevent the sperm from reaching the egg or prevent the egg or fertilized egg (zygote) from moving from the ovary to the uterus to be implanted. Abnormalities in the uterus or pelvis can prevent the egg from attaching to (implanting in) the lining of the uterus and can block the fallopian tubes