Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome and Infertility

Unfortunately, one of the biggest complications associated with PCOS is the infertility that it often causes. Because ovulation and menstruation is so irregular, many women find it impossible to become pregnant. 

Some women may even lose their menstrual periods entirely. In fact, over 90% of women with irregular periods and 30% of women without periods are actually experiencing PCOS.

Diagnosing Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome

If you are trying to get pregnant, your reproductive endocrinologist will likely investigate the cause of your irregular ovulation. Specific tests will be done to confirm if you are suffering from PCOS. Common tests include:

  • Luteinizing Hormone Test
  • Follicle Stimulating Hormone(FSH) Test
  • pelvic ultrasound

Treating Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome

If you are diagnosed with PCOS, there are a variety of treatments that may be suitable to help you to minimize your symptoms and restore your fertility. Common treatments include:

  • Clomiphene Citrate: Clomiphene citrate, or Clomid, is a fertility drug used to help induce ovulation. It can help to restore your ovulation, so that your eggs can be retrieved for use during IVF or IUI.
  • Oral Contraceptives: Oral contraceptives, like the birth control pill, can help to restore your hormones and reduce your symptoms. However, you will be unable to become pregnant while using oral contraceptives.
  • Surgery: If you have PCOS, there are a variety of surgical options available to you. Wedge resection and ovarian drilling are two surgical procedures that help to restore ovulation in women with PCOS. In fact, between 70% and 90% of women who undergo these procedures, begin to ovulate within one year.

     

     

 

Table of Contents
1. Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome
2. Infertility and PCOS
 
 
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