September is both Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) Awareness Month—two important campaigns that highlight conditions deeply connected to fertility and reproductive health. While both ovarian cancer and PCOS are common, they are often misunderstood, which can leave patients with unanswered questions about their health and future family-building options.

To shed light on these important topics, Mary Morris, MD, PhD, a reproductive endocrinologist and co-director of the Oncofertility Program at Boston IVF, recently shared her expertise in a Q&A interview with Patch.

Ovarian Health and Fertility: What Everyone Should Know
Many patients seek out ovarian reserve testing to learn about their fertility. However, as Dr. Morris explains, ovarian reserve reflects how your ovaries may respond to fertility treatment—not your natural ability to conceive.

• Under age 35? See a fertility specialist if you’ve been trying for one year without success.
• Age 35 or older? Seek help after six months of trying.
• Over 40? Consult a reproductive endocrinologist right away when considering pregnancy.

PCOS and Reproductive Outcomes
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrine disorder affecting reproductive-aged women. Diagnosis typically involves two of the following: irregular or infrequent menstrual cycles, symptoms of elevated androgens (like acne or excess hair growth), or polycystic ovaries seen on ultrasound.

PCOS can make conception more challenging and increase the risk of pregnancy complications such as:

• Early pregnancy loss
• Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy
• Gestational diabetes

Fortunately, with early diagnosis, preventive care, and specialized fertility treatments, many of these risks can be reduced. Dr. Morris emphasizes that addressing underlying health issues, such as high blood pressure or diabetes, before pregnancy can significantly improve outcomes.

Recognizing Ovarian Dysfunction
If your menstrual cycles are not regular (outside the typical 25–35 day window), it’s important to seek evaluation. Possible causes include thyroid disease, elevated prolactin, PCOS, or primary ovarian insufficiency—many of which are treatable with the right care.

Fertility After Ovarian Cancer
One of the most common concerns from patients with ovarian cancer is: “Can I still get pregnant after surgery?”

• For some early-stage cases, fertility-sparing surgery may be an option.
• Fertility preservation techniques—such as egg or embryo freezing—can often be pursued before chemotherapy or after surgery, depending on the treatment plan.
• Reproductive endocrinologists work hand-in-hand with oncologists to help patients understand their choices and protect future fertility whenever possible.

The Power of Early Intervention
Dr. Morris stresses the importance of proactive conversations between patients and providers. Irregular periods, painful cycles, or unexplained pelvic pain should never be ignored. With early evaluation and the support of a fertility specialist, many patients are able to overcome reproductive challenges and move forward with confidence and hope.

Read the full Q&A with Dr. Mary Morris in Patch: Q&A with Mary Morris, MD, PhD of Boston IVF on Ovarian Cancer and PCOS Awareness Month

At Boston IVF, our team of reproductive endocrinologists, fertility specialists, and oncofertility experts are here to guide patients through every step of their journey—whether you’re navigating PCOS, exploring fertility preservation, or planning your family after cancer treatment.

If you have questions about your ovarian health or fertility, schedule a consultation with a Boston IVF specialist today.