Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder that occurs in females of reproductive age groups and involves about 5–10 percent of women. It is caused by the presence of an excessive amount of male reproductive hormones in the female body and presents symptoms such as floods, obesity, and hirsutism. Another issue of concern to women with PCOS is fertility and reproduction—or lack of it.
Knowledge of the causal factors of PCOS on fertility and envisioning how the condition may be handled can be of great help to women struggling to conceive.
How PCOS Affects Fertility?
The worst or the first and primary way through which PCOS affects fertility is through ovulation irregularities. Women with PCOS exhibit some features, such as irregular or no periods in a month because their hormones are unbalanced and high levels of androgens and insulin. Some of these hormonal imbalances can stop the ovaries from releasing mature eggs, a situation referred to as anovulation. Inability to ovulate increases the likelihood of conception greatly.
Moreover, in the case of ovulation, the complex of the uterus might not develop effectively to make way for the onset of the fertilization of an egg. This makes it very difficult for women with PCOS to conceive naturally because of the above-stated reasons. According to research studies, PCOS can be attributed to about 70% of excellence cases of women with infertility.
Recognizing Symptoms
Symptoms of PCOS can vary widely among individuals. Common signs include:
- Irregular or absent menstrual cycles
- Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
- Excessive hair growth on the face and body (hirsutism)
- Acne or oily skin
- Thinning hair on the scalp
Therefore, if you have such symptoms or have been struggling with infertility, you need to consult a healthcare provider so that you can be diagnosed correctly and effectively managed.
Management Strategies at Fertility
While a diagnosis of PCOS can be daunting, there are effective management strategies that can improve fertility prospects:
Lifestyle Modifications:
- Diet: Adopting a low glycaemic index diet can help manage insulin levels and promote weight loss. Focus on whole foods, lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains while avoiding processed sugars and refined carbohydrates.
- Exercise: Regular physical activity helps improve insulin sensitivity and supports weight management. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week.
Medical Treatments:
- Ovulation Induction: Medications such as Clomiphene citrate (Clomid) or letrozole can stimulate ovulation in women with PCOS. These medications are often the first line of treatment for those trying to conceive.
- Insulin Sensitizers: Metformin is commonly prescribed to improve insulin sensitivity in women with PCOS, which may help restore regular ovulation.
- Hormonal Birth Control: For women not currently seeking pregnancy, hormonal contraceptives can help regulate menstrual cycles and reduce androgen levels.
Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART):
If other treatments are unsuccessful, options like intrauterine insemination (IUI) or in vitro fertilization (IVF) may be considered. IVF has been shown to be effective for women with PCOS, providing a pathway to pregnancy even when traditional methods fail.
Surgery:
In some cases, laparoscopic ovarian drilling may be recommended. This procedure requires mini-incisions in the abdomen to get to the ovaries and the use of the laser for the alteration of androgen levels, which may in turn trigger normal ovulation.
Conclusion
This condition compromises fertility because hormones produced cause problems in ovulation and formation of the uterine lining. But, with certain modifications in lifestyle and medications, a woman with PCOS can get pregnant easily.
Ram Prakash, who is one of the best embryologists, will help women diagnosed with PCOS and those with fertility problems. He will help them have a broader understanding of the disease so as to manage it and maybe increase their chances of conceiving.
FAQs
How to improve egg quality in PCOS?
To improve egg quality in women with PCOS, focus on a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and low-glycemic index foods.
What to eat for PCOS to get pregnant?
For women with PCOS aiming to get pregnant, consume whole grains, lean proteins, healthy fats, fruits, and vegetables.