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The polycystic ovary syndrome, commonly known as PCOS, is one of the most common conditions among women of reproductive age. This hormonal disorder affects between 5% and 10% of women, and its diagnosis can be challenging because its symptoms vary from person to person. One of the most common complications is difficulty conceiving. In this article, we will explore how PCOS can affect fertility and the options available to improve the chances of pregnancy.

What is PCOS?

PCOS is a hormonal disorder characterized by enlarged ovaries with multiple small follicles, an imbalance in reproductive hormones, and a series of symptoms including:

• Irregular or absent menstrual cycles
• Excess androgens (male hormones), which can cause acne and excessive hair growth
• Difficulty conceiving due to irregular or absent ovulation

Despite its name, not all women with PCOS develop multiple follicles in the ovaries, and not all those with multiple follicles in the ovaries have PCOS. The key to diagnosis lies in hormonal and reproductive symptoms.

PCOS and Fertility: How Does It Affect Ovulation?

PCOS directly affects ovulation, which is crucial for fertility. Normally, each menstrual cycle involves the development and release of a mature egg from the ovaries. However, in women with PCOS, this process can be disrupted due to a hormonal imbalance. Elevated androgen levels and insulin resistance, two common features of PCOS, can prevent the ovaries from regularly releasing eggs.

As a result, women with PCOS often experience:

• Irregular ovulation: Menstrual cycles can be infrequent, making it difficult to predict fertile days.
• Anovulation: In some cases, ovulation does not occur, making fertilization impossible.

Can I Get Pregnant if I Have PCOS?

Although PCOS can make conception more difficult, it does not mean it is impossible. Many women with PCOS achieve pregnancy, either naturally or with the help of medical treatments.

The first step is to regulate the menstrual cycle. This can be achieved through lifestyle changes, such as weight loss if necessary, or by improving insulin sensitivity through diet and exercise. These adjustments can help balance hormone levels and increase the chances of ovulation.

Additionally, some supplements like myo-inositol have proven effective in women with PCOS, helping regulate menstrual cycles by improving insulin sensitivity and ovarian function.

If lifestyle changes are not enough, it is essential to consult a fertility specialist to evaluate possible treatments. Various medications, under the supervision of a professional, can stimulate ovulation or improve insulin resistance. In more complex cases, assisted reproduction treatments such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) or artificial insemination may be considered. The choice of treatment will depend on the severity of PCOS and other factors like age and ovarian reserve.

Tips to Improve Fertility with PCOS

While PCOS can be an obstacle to achieving pregnancy, there are various actions that can help improve fertility:

1. Weight management: Moderate weight loss (between 5% and 10% of body weight) can significantly improve ovulation in women with PCOS. Additionally, a healthy weight reduces the risk of complications during pregnancy. If you want to learn more about how body mass index (BMI) can affect fertility, we invite you to read our post here where we discuss this topic in depth.
2. Balanced diet: Adopting a low-carbohydrate, high-protein diet can help stabilize insulin levels. Women with PCOS often benefit from a diet that includes whole foods, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats.
3. Regular exercise: Moderate exercise can improve insulin sensitivity and help regulate the menstrual cycle. Additionally, it reduces stress, which can also negatively affect fertility. Discover how moderate exercise can positively influence your fertility and which type of physical activity is most recommended in our post here.
4. Stress reduction: PCOS, along with difficulty conceiving, can generate high levels of stress. Practicing relaxation techniques, such as yoga or meditation, can help reduce the impact of stress on reproductive health.

When to Consult a Specialist

If you have been trying to conceive for more than six months without success, it may be time to consult a fertility specialist. At Gravida, we specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of PCOS, helping women maximize their chances of conception through personalized care and the latest advancements in fertility treatments.

Having a medical team that understands the specifics of PCOS and can guide you throughout the treatment process is key to increasing the chances of success.

Conclusion

PCOS can be a challenge for fertility, but it is not an insurmountable barrier. With the right diagnosis, lifestyle changes, and appropriate treatments, many women with PCOS can achieve their dream of becoming mothers. At Gravida, we are here to support you every step of the way.

If you have questions or need more information on how PCOS affects your fertility, feel free to contact us.

Phone: 93 206 64 89
Email: internacional@gravidabcn.com
Contact form: here

You will find us at:
Hospital de Barcelona (16th floor)
Av. Diagonal 660
08034 Barcelona

We are here to help you make your dream of becoming a mother come true!