Women diagnosed with PCOS may experience mild to severe symptoms, while others may experience no symptoms at all. Common signs of PCOS can include irregular or absent periods, weight gain, hair loss, skin conditions, and the inability to become pregnant with valiant attempts. Small cysts on the ovaries may also be present.
There is no “best age” to get pregnant with PCOS but as with all pregnancy chances, higher risks of infertility are seen in older women. Symptoms of PCOS are noted in the late teens and early 20s.
One in 10 young women develop PCOS. It should be noted there is no cure for PCOS. With appropriate fertility treatments at a reputable fertility clinic, a woman may be able to get pregnant with a PCOS.
How Can I Conceive with PCOS?
While it may prolong the time it takes to get pregnant, PCOS does not mean a woman cannot have a successful pregnancy. As one of the more common issues with infertility, PCOS can be treated with various fertility treatments.This can include use of medications, lifestyle changes, donation of egg, and medical intervention at a fertility clinic. Below are some common steps you can take to increase you chances of a successful pregnancy if you have PCOS.
Maintain a Healthy Weight
One of the more common traits of PCOS is obesity. While not all patients have weight issues, those with excessive weight do often have unmanageable levels of insulin production. PCOS can cause these levels fluctuate. Excessive weight can also hinder appropriate ovulation timing. This may be reversed with weight loss.Exercise
Fertility clinics advise all patients to incorporate a regular exercise routine into their daily schedule to improve their chances of becoming pregnant. As with most infertility conditions, those with PCOS can see a reduction in a number of symptoms if they engage in brisk walking, aerobic activities, and strength training. The amount and intensity of the exercise routine should be discussed with a fertility specialist as excessive amounts can offset treatment by increasing inflammation levels.Medications
With PCOS, a woman’s body may produce excessive amounts of both estrogen and testosterone, which has an adverse affect on the chances of becoming pregnant. Birth control medications are often used to balance low and high estrogen and testosterone levels. Other commonly prescribed drugs include metformin to balance insulin, clomiphene citrate to balance estrogen, and fertility medications to stimulate egg production.Lifestyle Changes
Infertility associated with PCOS may be improved with basic lifestyle changes. From incorporating a regular exercise regime to following a healthy diet, women may have better treatment results. Abstaining from alcohol, tobacco use, and other health hazards is recommended.Fertility Options
There are fertility options available for those with PCOS. In vitro fertilization (IVF) and in vitro maturation (IVM) are two commonly used avenues. The injected medication used with IVF can often overstimulate the ovaries and IVM may be needed. Using an egg donor may also be another option for people dealing with infertility associated with PCOS.Follow a Healthy Diet
As with any condition that affects fertility, following a healthy diet is vital for consuming needed nutrients, as well as lowering the risk of weight gain. Fill your daily diet with fruits and vegetables, beans and lentils, chicken, fish, and whole grains. Your fertility specialist may recommend vitamin and mineral supplements.Check Your Blood Sugar Levels
High blood sugar levels are often seen in cases of PCOS. It is important to monitor levels throughout treatment to observe how your body is naturally producing the hormone insulin. PCOS can impede the hormone from transforming glucose into needed energy.Contact ONE Fertility Kitchener Fertility Clinic in Ontario
ONE Fertility Kitchener Waterloo offers personalized fertility plans and infertility counselling in Kitchener Waterloo. Our specialists provide care and treatment at our state-of-the-art facility. We understand how PCOS can affect a person’s chances of being pregnant and offer a comprehensive plan to treat the condition with the best resources.As a leading fertility clinic in the Kitchener Waterloo region, we have proven success rates in helping individuals and couples. Contact us today at (519) 650-0011.
