Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common causes of fertility challenges in women. While PCOS can affect ovulation and hormone levels, it’s important to know that many women with PCOS can conceive successfully with the right support and treatment. This article explores how PCOS affects fertility, treatment options, and practical steps you can take to grow your family.
How PCOS Affects Fertility
PCOS disrupts the normal process of ovulation due to hormonal imbalances. In a typical cycle, the ovaries release a mature egg ready for fertilisation. However, in PCOS, hormonal irregularities prevent this process from occurring regularly or at all.
Key factors affecting fertility in PCOS include:
- Irregular Ovulation: Hormonal imbalances can prevent the ovaries from releasing an egg consistently.
- Elevated Androgens: High levels of male hormones can interfere with ovulation and contribute to symptoms like acne and excess hair growth.
- Insulin Resistance: Many women with PCOS experience insulin resistance, which can exacerbate hormonal imbalances and weight challenges, further complicating fertility.
Understanding how PCOS affects your body is the first step toward finding the right solutions.
Can You Get Pregnant with PCOS?
Yes, many women with PCOS can conceive successfully, though it may take more time and support. Fertility outcomes depend on several factors, including:
- Age: Fertility naturally declines with age, so early intervention is key.
- Weight and Overall Health: Managing weight and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can improve ovulation and hormonal balance.
- Timely Diagnosis: Identifying PCOS early allows for a proactive approach to managing symptoms and fertility challenges.
The good news is that effective treatments are available, and many women go on to have healthy pregnancies with the right care.
Fertility Treatments for Women with PCOS
There are a variety of treatments available to help women with PCOS conceive. Your treatment plan will depend on your individual symptoms, health goals, and personal preferences.
1. Lifestyle Changes
- A healthy, balanced diet and regular physical activity can improve insulin sensitivity and support ovulation.
- Focus on a low-GI (glycaemic index) diet, which helps regulate blood sugar levels and reduce inflammation.
- Losing as little as 5–10% of body weight can significantly improve fertility for women with PCOS.
Our accredited dietitians can assist with developing an eating plan tailored to your specific needs. They can also provide support and training for cognitive behavioural strategies that are helpful for adopting lifestyle changes for the long term.
2. Medications to Induce Ovulation
There are many types of medications commonly prescribed for women with PCOS. Medications to assist with inducing ovulation or to reduce insulin resistance, and to regulate menstrual cycles and ovulation, are some of these which are incorporated as a first and second lines of treatment for fertility challenges related to PCOS. These types of medications may include (but are not limited to) Letrozole, Clomiphene Citrate, and or Metformin. Your doctors will recommend the best treatment plan and based on your specific health circumstances and suitability for medication or hormone therapy.
3. Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART)
When ovulation inducing therapies are unsuitable or unsuccessful, Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART) therapies may be introduced in conjunction with or instead of medications, for improving fertility outcomes. These may include In vitro fertilisation (IVF), In vitro maturation (IVM), or Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI).
- In Vitro Maturation (IVM): Immature eggs are collected, then maturation steps processes are completed before they are fertilised outside the body and then implanted in the uterus.
- In-Vitro Fertilisation (IVF): Mature eggs are collected then fertilised outside the body and then implanted in the uterus.
- Intra-Cytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI): Where a single sperm is injected into each egg, to assist with fertilisation, in conjunction with an IVM/IVF treatment cycle.
Natural and Complementary Approaches
Some women with PCOS explore natural and complementary treatments alongside conventional options. Always consult your doctor before starting any complementary treatments to ensure they are safe and effective for your individual needs.
When to See a Fertility Specialist
If you’ve been trying to conceive for 12 months (or six months if you’re over 35) without success, it is a good time to see a gynaecologist about your fertility.
- A fertility specialist can conduct advanced testing to assess ovulation, hormone levels, and overall reproductive health.
- You’ll need a referral from your GP to access fertility services, including consultations with specialists and treatments like IVF.
Early intervention can improve your chances of conception and reduce the stress of prolonged uncertainty.
If you suspect you have PCOS but don’t yet have a diagnosis, it’s important to discuss your symptoms with your GP as soon as possible. They can evaluate your concerns, order initial tests, and if needed, provide a referral to an experienced Gynaecologist, such as those at Bloom Women’s Health, for further assessment and personalised care.
FAQs About PCOS and Fertility
How long does it take to get pregnant with PCOS?
The time it takes to conceive varies widely. With the right treatments, many women achieve pregnancy within months.
What is the best fertility treatment for PCOS?
This depends on individual factors. Ovulation-inducing medications like letrozole or clomiphene are often the first step, but IVF may be recommended in certain cases.
Can losing weight improve fertility in PCOS?
Yes, even modest weight loss can help regulate menstrual cycles and improve ovulation, increasing the likelihood of conception.
Conclusion
While PCOS can pose fertility challenges, there are effective treatments and support available to help you achieve your dream of starting or growing your family. With the right care, many women with PCOS successfully conceive and go on to have healthy pregnancies.
To learn more about PCOS, read our article here: https://bwhealth.com.au/blog/understanding-polycystic-ovary-syndrome-pcos/
If you’re concerned about your fertility, contact Bloom Women’s Health today to discuss your fertility options and receive expert, compassionate care.
