Nowadays, one of the most common hormonal disorders affecting women of reproductive age is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Often, the diagnosis leads to a more critical question: Can you get pregnant with PCOS? This is the number one fear that everyone afflicted with PCOS has. Fortunately, having PCOS doesn’t mean pregnancy is out of reach. Many women with PCOS conceive naturally.
In this article, we’ll explore how PCOS impacts fertility and what steps you can take to improve your chances.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a condition caused by changes in hormone levels, where the ovaries make more of certain hormones than needed. These hormones, called androgens, are usually found in small amounts in women, but with PCOS, their levels are higher than normal. This can affect how the ovaries work.
There is no specific age at which one can get this disorder, and it usually occurs in women who are of reproductive age, that is, females who have undergone puberty. Also, the term “polycystic” can be misleading. Despite the name, not all women with PCOS have cysts on their ovaries, and even if they do, these ovarian cysts are usually harmless and not painful.
In a few cases, there may not be any evident signs of PCOS, and the diagnosis may be confirmed only when other symptoms, like difficulty in conception, occur. Here are a few signs that could indicate the woman is suffering from PCOS:
Women with PCOS may experience irregular periods. There may be multiple months with no signs of menstrual bleeding. Additionally, women may also have heavy bleeding during their periods if they have PCOS.
Studies have indicated that approximately 70% of women with PCOS may have hirsutism, that is, excessive facial hair and body hair. Thick hair growth may be visible on the chest, arms and abdomen. This is usually attributed to the higher-than-normal levels of the androgen hormone.
Abnormal weight gain and the inability to maintain optimal body weight could also be symptoms of PCOS.
PCOS-afflicted women may suffer from a condition called acanthosis nigricans. This refers to the darkening of the skin, specifically in the folds of the neck, armpits, groin, or under the breasts. The appearance of acne on the face, chest, or back is yet another sign of PCOS. This type of acne may be visible even after the woman has entered adulthood. Skin tags, small extra flaps of skin, are yet another issue that women with PCOS may have to deal with. Apart from these issues, women may also notice hair thinning or missing patches of hair on their heads.
Ultrasound tests may reveal the presence of ovarian cysts, which are small fluid-filled sacs that contain immature eggs. These usually form as a result of hormonal imbalances that hinder normal ovulation.
The inability to successfully conceive a child, despite trying for a long period of time, could be due to PCOS. In fact, most cases of PCOS are confirmed while evaluating fertility issues and delays in conception.
PCOS is usually diagnosed after undergoing a few tests. A physical exam is usually the first step. During the exam, skin and hair issues, if any, will be noted. Apart from this, a pelvic exam will also be performed in case of any menstrual problems. Blood tests may be conducted to evaluate hormone levels. A pelvic ultrasound may also be performed, through which the presence of ovarian cysts can be confirmed. It will also check the thickness of the uterine lining and the presence of any other abnormalities.
As PCOS typically occurs in women who are within their reproductive years, it can directly influence fertility at a time when many are trying to start a family. There are quite a few studies that link fertility with PCOS. As stated earlier, due to the presence of excessive male hormones, women diagnosed with PCOS may experience abnormal ovulation and menstrual cycles along with other health issues, like the creation of ovarian cysts. These issues may adversely impact fertility and reduce the chances of successful conception.
Being diagnosed with PCOS poses several challenges, especially when it comes to fertility. It makes it tougher to get pregnant and could lead to a few complications. However, many women do conceive despite having PCOS and natural pregnancy is actually quite possible in most cases. Lifestyle modifications, medications, and even assisted reproductive technologies like IVF can be helpful in managing PCOS and improving fertility.
Effective treatment plans for PCOS-afflicted women who wish to conceive a child include:
While medical treatments are available, many women with PCOS have conceived naturally by focusing on improving their lifestyle. There are plenty of PCOS pregnancy success stories out there. Some of these are the result of women making positive changes to their daily routines and overall health. Here are a few tips that can make a difference for women with PCOS:
Obesity is one of the adverse effects of PCOS, and it has been linked to fertility issues. Regular exercise and avoidance of a sedentary lifestyle can help maintain optimal body weight.
Adopting a nutritious diet, especially one that focuses on antioxidants, could combat some of the adverse effects of PCOS. Avoid unhealthy fats, sugary foods, and other high-calorie foods, as they can contribute to weight gain.
It is best to abstain from smoking and drinking, as it could lead to long-term health issues that could impact fertility.
Being diagnosed with PCOS can be overwhelming. Be positive and stay focused on the treatment path recommended by the doctor. Meditate, do yoga, or speak to people who can support you as you recover from the effects of PCOS. A positive mindset can work wonders!
PCOS is definitely not an immovable obstacle in your path towards a successful pregnancy. It can be overcome. Being diagnosed early makes quite a difference in the outcome, so make sure to consult a gynecologist if any of the symptoms discussed in this article have been noticed. With the right care, lifestyle changes, and support, a natural pregnancy is possible for many women.
