Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and Infertility: the Connection

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and Infertility: the Connection

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal derangement affecting millions of women worldwide. While symptoms can vary, infertility is a common concern for many with PCOS. In this post, we will discuss the connection between PCOS and infertility, explaining the symptoms, causes, and treatment options to help you navigate this condition.

How do you understand PCOS?

PCOS disturbs the body’s natural hormonal balance. Normally, ovaries produce eggs and hormones like estrogen and progesterone. In PCOS, ovaries may develop small cysts, and hormone production becomes irregular. This can lead to infrequent or absent ovulation (egg release), a key factor in infertility.

Symptoms of PCOS

While symptoms vary, some common signs of PCOS include:

• Irregular periods: This can manifest as infrequent periods (less than eight in a year), prolonged periods (lasting more than seven days), or unpredictable cycles.
• Excess androgen: Androgen is a male hormone present in females as well. Elevated levels can lead to symptoms like acne, excessive facial or body hair growth (hirsutism), and male-pattern baldness.
• Weight gain and difficulty losing weight: PCOS can affect insulin sensitivity, making it harder to manage weight.
• Skin problems: Oily skin, acne breakouts, and skin tags are common.
• Darkening of neck folds and underarms: This is known as acanthosis nigricans.

Infertility and PCOS

Infertility is the inability to conceive after one year of regular, unprotected intercourse. PCOS is a leading cause of infertility in women, contributing to problems with ovulation. Here’s how PCOS can impact fertility:

• Irregular ovulation: As mentioned earlier, PCOS can disrupt ovulation, making it difficult to predict fertile windows or even prevent ovulation altogether.
• Egg quality: PCOS may affect egg quality, impacting fertilization or healthy embryo development.
• Insulin resistance: PCOS can cause insulin resistance, which can indirectly affect ovulation and fertility.

Diagnosing PCOS

There’s no single test for PCOS. Diagnosis typically involves a combination of factors which include::

• Detail medical history and symptoms: Your doctor will inquire about your menstrual cycle, weight changes, and other symptoms.
• Pelvic exam: helps assess overall reproductive health.
• Blood tests: Blood tests can measure hormone levels, including androgen levels, and rule out other conditions.
• Ultrasound:  to visualize the ovaries and check for cysts.

Treatment Options for PCOS

While there’s no cure for PCOS, treatment focuses on managing symptoms and improving fertility. Options include:

• Lifestyle changes: Maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise can improve insulin sensitivity and overall health.
• Medications: Birth control pills can regulate hormones, improve menstrual cycles, and help manage acne. Anti-androgen medications can reduce excess male hormone levels and the associated symptoms.
• Ovulation induction medications: These medications stimulate ovulation, increasing the chances of producing many eggs and  pregnancy outcome.
• Surgery: In rare cases, laparoscopic ovarian drilling may be considered to promote ovulation as a last resort.

Living with PCOS and Infertility

PCOS can be a challenging condition, but  many women with PCOS lead fulfilling lives, have healthy pregnancies, and build families. Here are some tips for coping:

• Seek support: Talk to your doctor, join a PCOS support group to connect with others who understand.
• Manage stress: Stress can worsen PCOS symptoms. Explore stress management techniques like yoga, meditation, or therapy.
• Make healthy choices: Focus on a balanced diet and regular exercise.
• Educate yourself: Stay informed about PCOS and treatment options.

The Future of PCOS Treatment

Research into PCOS is ongoing, with promising therapies on the horizon.  These include:

• Insulin-sensitizing medications: These medications may improve ovulation rates in women with PCOS and insulin resistance.
• New ovulation induction medications: Newer medications with potentially fewer side effects are being studied.

Conclusion

PCOS can be a roadblock on the path to parenthood, but it doesn’t have to be the end of the road. By understanding the connection between PCOS and infertility, getting a proper diagnosis, and discussing treatment options with your doctor, you can take control of your health and explore various paths to achieve your family-building goals. Talk to our Fertility Specialist, Dr. G. L. Yahaya  at Continental Fertility Clinic by booking an appointment with us today.