By Dr Suzan Elharmeel, City Fertility Centre Gold Coast.
Trying to get pregnant with PCOS? Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) can significantly affect fertility but with proper diagnosis and medical care, women living with the condition can achieve successful pregnancies.
What is PCOS?
As the most common endocrine disorder in females of reproductive age, PCOS affects between 12 and 21 per cent of women; however, it is estimated that 70 per cent of Australian women with the condition remain undiagnosed.
Women with PCOS can usually be treated with methods that do not require them to progress to IVF.
How does PCOS Affect Fertility?
The concern in being undiagnosed is that PCOS goes untreated and can result in a range of health issues, including fertility problems and potentially major conditions or illnesses such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular disease. It can also affect psychological health.
Diagnosing PCOS and Fertility-Related Issues
When I am diagnosing a patient with PCOS, using an ultrasound, the three key features I look for are:
- Infrequent or irregular periods.
- Evidence of excessive blood levels of androgens.
- Excessive androgens often cause symptoms such as excessive hair.
- The presence of a large ovarian volume or polycystic ovaries.
In women with PCOS, estrogen is usually produced in normal amounts, testosterone appears in excessive amounts, and progesterone may be generated irregularly or not at all.
PCOS Fertility Treatment Options
While infertility can be a challenging experience for you and your partner, the good news is that it can usually be treated. Treatment for PCOS varies depending on the presenting problem.
Improving health for PCOS fertility
The first line of treatment would be to improve lifestyle and diet. Obesity is common in women with PCOS, so a healthy diet and exercise are recommended for weight loss, which can in turn help improve the frequency of ovulation and spontaneous conception with better pregnancy outcomes.
Medication for PCOS infertility
If fertility is the main priority, treatment with medication to assist in ovulation can be given. Ovulation can be induced with clomiphene citrate (Clomid or Serophene), and Metformin may be used in conjunction with Clomid to improve results. Women using clomiphene will have success in ovulating, resulting in pregnancy rates comparable to those of the general population.
It should be noted that clomiphene is only prescribed by a fertility specialist for up to six menstrual cycles. If the woman does not become pregnant, injectable fertility drugs, administered at low doses (follicle stimulation hormone, or FSH), may be used to induce ovulation.
If infertility is not the immediate concern, the combined oral contraceptive pill (OCP) can be prescribed to reduce acne and hirsutism (hairiness) and maintain regular menstrual periods. Most importantly, the OCP provides constant progesterone to protect the endometrium and lower the risk of uterine cancer from the unopposed estrogen, which is a common feature of PCOS.
PCOS IVF Treatment
IVF can be a highly effective option for PCOS patients when other treatments, such as ovulation induction or medications, haven’t led to successful conception. To begin your IVF journey with City Fertility, simply book an appointment with one of our fertility specialists, who will guide you through personalized treatment options tailored to your needs.
Regular testing for PCOS symptoms
Regular testing for glucose tolerance and metabolic factors like cholesterol is crucial for women with PCOS, as it helps monitor the risk of developing diabetes and other metabolic conditions that can impact fertility. Early detection and management of these issues can improve overall health and increase the chances of a successful pregnancy.
PCOS IVF Treatment at City Fertility
At City Fertility, we understand the unique challenges that women with PCOS face on their journey to parenthood, and we are here to support you every step of the way. Our experienced fertility specialists offer personalised care, tailoring treatments such as ovulation induction and IVF to your specific needs. With advanced fertility options and compassionate care, we’re committed to helping you achieve your dream of starting a family.
Book an appointment with one of your local fertility specialists to learn more about your PCOS IVF journey today.
PCOS and Fertility FAQs
Is it possible to get pregnant with PCOS?
Yes, it’s possible to get pregnant with PCOS, though some women may face challenges due to irregular ovulation. Fertility support services like ovulation induction, IVF, and tailored hormone treatments can improve your chances. Speak with a City Fertility specialist to explore your options.
How do you know if PCOS has impacted your fertility?
PCOS can affect fertility by disrupting ovulation, leading to irregular or absent periods and making it harder to conceive. It can also cause hormonal imbalances, which may impact egg quality. If you’re struggling to get pregnant or experiencing symptoms like irregular cycles, it’s essential to book a fertility check with a City Fertility specialist to discuss your concerns and explore treatment options.
What are the common symptoms of PCOS and infertility?
Common symptoms of PCOS include irregular periods, excessive hair growth, acne, and weight gain, which can impact fertility. If you’re experiencing these symptoms and are unsure about your fertility, speak with a City Fertility specialist to discuss your options.
What is it like being pregnant with PCOS?
Pregnancy with PCOS can come with increased risks, such as gestational diabetes or high blood pressure, but many women have healthy pregnancies with proper care. City Fertility is here to support you on your fertility journey, providing expert care every step of the way.
