Will PCOS Affect My Fertility?
Having polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can leave you with darkened patches of skin, irregular periods, and hair loss. And if you’re trying to have a baby, PCOS can also make your journey to parenthood more complicated.
However, the health specialists at The Guirguis Obstetrics & Gynecology Group are very experienced in treating PCOS with the aim of helping you get pregnant.
Signs you may have PCOS
Polycystic ovary syndrome is the result of an imbalance in your hormones, including insulin and the reproductive hormone androgen. Androgens are primarily male, but women have a small amount as well.
This hormone imbalance can lead to dysfunction in your ovaries. It’s the ovaries that release your eggs for fertilization each month, and any dysfunction in these organs can make it more difficult to become pregnant.
As a result of PCOS, you can also develop fluid-filled sacs known as cysts in your ovaries. This can occur when your body doesn’t make enough hormones to trigger ovulation.
Some of the signs that you may have PCOS include:
- Skin darkening
- Excess hair growth on the face and chin
- Irregular periods
- Male-pattern baldness and hair loss
Weight gain is also a common side effect of PCOS. And, unfortunately, being overweight or obese can make it harder to get pregnant.
Overcoming fertility issues relating to PCOS
If PCOS symptoms are hindering your ability to get pregnant, The Guirguis Obstetrics & Gynecology Group can help. While there’s no cure for PCOS, symptoms can be managed, and in many cases, infertility can be addressed with proper treatment.
Initially, the team will work with you to increase your physical activity and help you lose weight. Physical activity and losing weight can also have a positive impact on your fertility and help to regulate your periods. Furthermore, the team can give you medications, such as clomiphene, to help with ovulation. These medications are safe for your treatment, but they may increase the likelihood that you’ll become pregnant with twins or multiple babies.
Other treatments available
In the event that you still can’t conceive a pregnancy with PCOS treatment, you may be a candidate for in vitro fertilization, and your specialist can refer you for those services.
While struggles with PCOS and infertility can be discouraging, the health specialists at The Guirguis Obstetrics & Gynecology Group will work with you to improve your overall health with a focus on your reproductive health.
If you’re concerned about your fertility or need treatment for PCOS, book an appointment online or over the phone with The Guirguis Obstetrics & Gynecology Group today.