Are you struggling with PCOS and wondering how it might be affecting your chances of starting a family? Well, you’re not alone.
PCOS, or Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, is a common condition that affects around 1 in 10 women of reproductive age. It can cause a variety of symptoms, including irregular periods, acne, and excessive hair growth. But one of the most significant impacts of PCOS is on fertility.
What is PCOS?
PCOS is a hormonal disorder that affects the ovaries. The ovaries are the reproductive organs that produce eggs, and they are also responsible for producing the hormones estrogen and progesterone. In women with PCOS, the ovaries develop small cysts (hence the name “polycystic”), and this can disrupt the normal hormonal balance. As a result, women with PCOS may have higher levels of androgens (male hormones) and lower levels of estrogen and progesterone. This can affect ovulation, making it more difficult to conceive.
Symptoms of PCOS
The symptoms of PCOS can vary from woman to woman, but some of the most common include:
- Irregular periods, or no periods at all
- Excessive hair growth on the face, chest, and back
- Acne and oily skin
- Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
- Infertility or difficulty getting pregnant
- Depression and anxiety
Sounds great, right?!
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s worth talking to your GP about PCOS. They can perform a physical examination, and may also recommend blood tests or a pelvic ultrasound to confirm the diagnosis.
How PCOS affects fertility
As already mentioned, one of the main ways that PCOS affects fertility is by disrupting ovulation. In a typical menstrual cycle, an egg is released from one of the ovaries and travels down the fallopian tube, where it can be fertilized by sperm. But in women with PCOS, the hormonal imbalances can prevent the ovaries from releasing eggs. This is called anovulation.
Another way that PCOS can affect fertility is by making it harder for the fertilized egg to implant in the uterus. The hormonal imbalances can also cause changes to the lining of the uterus, which can make it less hospitable to a fertilized egg.
Treatment options
The good news is that there are several treatment options available for women with PCOS who want to conceive. The most common approach is to use medication to stimulate ovulation. This can include drugs like Clomid or Letrozole, which help to regulate the menstrual cycle and increase the chances of ovulation.
In some cases, your GP may refer you to a specialist, such as a gynaecologist or fertility specialist, for more advanced treatment options, such as Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) or In Vitro Fertilization (IVF).
Lifestyle changes
While medication can be effective in treating PCOS and improving fertility, there are also a few lifestyle changes you can make to help boost your chances of conception.
- Maintaining a healthy weight: Being overweight or obese can make PCOS symptoms worse and make it harder to conceive. So, losing weight through diet and exercise can help improve ovulation and boost fertility.
- Eating a healthy diet: Eating a diet that’s rich in whole foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein, can help regulate your hormones and improve your overall health.
PCOS can be a frustrating and overwhelming condition, especially when it comes to trying to start a family. But the good news is that there are several treatment options available. And don’t forget, you’re not alone in this journey. There are many women out there facing the same challenges, and support groups can be a great way to connect with others who understand what you’re going through. Keep hope, you can still achieve your dream of starting a family with the right approach and support.