PCOS, a term that many young women dread, is quite a common problematic occurrence. This polycystic ovarian syndrome effects on female fertility by disturbing periods and affects the skin, body weight, mood, and most importantly, your fertility. If your cycles are random or unpredictable, planning a pregnancy is difficult. The most frustrating part is that many times, PCOS can go undiagnosed for many years as symptoms differ for every female. Whether you’ve been actively trying for a baby or just want to be in control of your health, understanding PCOS gives you a heads-up.
Affects of PCOS on female fertility: Look out for these symptoms – Warning Signs
PCOS can affect you anytime during the fertile years, and its symptoms often vary over time.
Affects of PCOS on female fertility varies from woman to woman, but some common symptoms are:
- Unusual hair growth on face or chest
- Acne breakouts and thinning of hairline
- Rapid weight gain
- Missed or irregular menstrual cycles
- Problems in conceiving
- Cysts in one or both ovaries
- Mood swings (even feeling frequently anxious or depressed in severe cases)
- Increased skin tags, especially around the neck or armpits
As common symptoms can vary in degree for different women, PCOS often goes misdiagnosed. Identifying and taking action on the early signs of PCOS manage it better with lifestyle improvements and medical treatment.
PCOS effects on female fertility
It can be really hard to conceive with PCOS. But when you understand it better, you can get the right help to manage reproductive health and achieve pregnancy.
- Ovulation problems: PCOS usually delays or stops ovulation because ovaries are not regularly releasing the eggs.
- Hormonal disorders: Even if the ovulation is taking place, hormonal imbalance doesn’t allow the uterus to be prepared for implantation.
- Unpredictable menstrual cycles: It’s not easy to keep track of irregular or unpredictable periods, and thus planning a conception is tricky.
Don’t lose hope. Get a proper fertility treatment from an expert doctor who can make a personalized treatment plan catering to your needs.
Other added health complications of persisting or acute PCOS:
- Higher blood sugar levels – Almost 50% of women with PCOS tend to be diabetic or prediabetic before they hit 40.
- Heart health risks: There is always a higher risk of hypertension, cholesterol issues, and heart disease.
- Struggles with excessive body weight: Gaining weight gets too effortless, but losing it becomes a tussle.
- Sleep-related issues: Poor sleep quality and a higher risk of sleep apnea.
- Impacted mental well-being: Anxiety, depression, and body image concerns are commonly linked with severe cases of PCOS-related fertility issues.
- Risk of cancer: Unbalanced hormones can increase the risk of endometrial cancer.
When is the right time for you to consult a doctor? Understanding affects of PCOS on female fertility
Anyone struggling to get pregnant and also experiencing symptoms of PCOS should consult a doctor. Even if pregnancy isn’t an immediate concern, timely diagnosis prevents unforeseen complications. As PCOS is among the common risk factors for infertility, catching the problem lets you begin the targeted treatment. This in effect improves the chances of conception
If you get pregnant with PCOS, it’s a must for you to know about the condition thoroughly. Such a condition often makes you more prone to complications such as high blood pressure, gestational diabetes, or premature delivery. The diagnosis happens on the basis of several factors such as physical checkup, medical history, blood sugar test, and imaging tests like ultrasound.
The right treatment approach
There is no absolute cure for PCOS, however, it can get under control with certain changes. Treatment for relief depends upon your symptoms and whether conceiving your current priority or not.
For overall relief from PCOS, fertility specialists recommend the following things:
- Birth control pills to restore hormonal balance and regularize the menstrual cycle.
- Diabetes medications if your blood glucose levels are excessively high.
- Insulin-sensitizing medications which improve insulin function and reduce testosterone levels.
- Healthier choices in lifestyle such as regular workout, yoga along with balanced nutritious diet help you keep a healthy bodyweight and alleviate discomforting PCOS symptoms as well.
- Ovulation-inducing medications to bring the period cycle back on track and give you a better window to conceive.
- Laparoscopic ovarian drilling, is a minimally invasive surgical procedure to lower testosterone levels to promote ovulation when medically necessary.
Every woman experiences different struggles with PCOS, thus only an expert-recommended personalized treatment is the right step. D
You can defeat the grip of PCOS by understanding affects of PCOS on female fertility. Do not waste time on random tips and opinions and get into a loop of hit and trial. Visit us at Ferticity VF & Fertility Clinics where our experienced doctors leverage their expertise and advanced technology to give you a perfect treatment plan. Book your consultation today.
Also Read : Diminished Ovarian Reserve (DOR) : Causes, Symptoms & Treatment
Primary and Secondary Infertility: Everything You Need to Know