Sophie, aged 28, BMI 31

I've always had a bit of a weight problem; and have yo-yo dieted all my adult life. Over the last five years, I've developed polycystic ovaries, which my doctor told me is because of my weight. We've been trying for a baby since we got married, but have not been successful.

After a few failed IVF treatments, our specialist told us that controlling my weight might help. I've tried lots of diets and none have ever worked for very long. I was desperate. I saw an advert for the National Gastric Balloon Centre and gave them a call. To be honest, I really didn't hold out much hope at all.

They told me that there was a study going on in Australia which was comparing the stomach balloon against IVF for infertility associated with both obesity and polycystic ovaries, and that the opinion was that the balloon would be more successful than IVF in helping fertility for women such as me. It was music to my ears!!

In June 2006, I had my balloon. I lost about two stones within a couple of months, and my weight became easier to control. I was thrilled when my periods started to become normal again. They hadn't been regular and normal for more than four years. It's now been about six months that my periods have been normal. We're trying again for a baby. Wish us luck!

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