Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is one of the common hormonal disorders that affect women. It occurs when a woman’s ovaries produce excess male hormones, leading to the formation of cysts on the ovaries.

PCOS can affect a woman’s menstrual cycle, fertility, insulin levels, and even her physical appearance. In this article, we will discuss how PCOS can contribute to infertility in women.

What Causes Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome?

The exact cause of PCOS is still unknown. However, several factors like genetics, insulin resistance, and inflammation can trigger its development. Women with a family history of PCOS are more likely to develop the condition.

Additionally, hormonal imbalances, especially in insulin and androgens, play a huge role in the development of PCOS. Insulin is a hormone that regulates glucose levels in the body and can lead to insulin resistance, a precursor to PCOS.

Androgens are male hormones produced by both men and women, but women with PCOS produce higher levels than normal, leading to symptoms such as irregular periods and acne.

How Does Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome Affect Fertility?

PCOS is one of the leading causes of female infertility. Women with PCOS have hormonal imbalances that can disrupt normal ovulation. Ovulation is the release of an egg from the ovary, which is a crucial part of the menstrual cycle.

However, women with PCOS may not ovulate regularly or at all. Without ovulation, there can be no fertilization, which leads to infertility.

Additionally, women with PCOS may have problems with the reproductive tract. The irregular periods that occur in women with PCOS can cause changes in the uterine lining, making it difficult for a fertilized egg to implant.

Furthermore, they may have an increase in the number of immature follicles on the ovaries, which can lead to the formation of cysts. These cysts can grow and enlarge, affecting the function of the ovaries and reducing the chances of conception.

How Is Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome Diagnosed?

PCOS diagnosis involves a combination of medical history, clinical examination, and lab tests. The doctor will take a detailed medical history, including the patient’s menstrual history, symptoms, and family history of PCOS.

A physical examination may also be conducted to check for signs of excess androgen production, such as acne, hirsutism, and male pattern baldness.

Laboratory tests may include blood tests to check hormone levels, blood glucose levels, and cholesterol levels. Ultrasound imaging may also be used to assess the ovaries’ condition and look for cysts or other abnormalities.

Diagnosis is usually made when at least two out of three diagnostic criteria are met: The presence of cysts on the ovaries, high androgen levels, and irregular periods.

How Is Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome Treated?

PCOS does not have a cure. However, various treatment options can help manage the symptoms effectively.

The treatment plan for PCOS varies depending on the symptoms and the woman’s goals, such as restoring fertility, regulating periods, or improving symptoms of excess hair growth or acne.

One of the first line treatments for PCOS is lifestyle changes such as weight loss, a balanced diet, and regular exercise. This can help improve insulin levels, regulate menstrual cycles and reduce some PCOS symptoms.

Other treatments may include hormone therapy, such as birth control pills, to regulate periods and reduce androgen production. Metformin, a medication used to treat type 2 diabetes, can also help regulate insulin levels and reduce androgen production.

Medications to induce ovulation can also be used in women who wish to conceive. Clomiphene citrate is a common medication used to stimulate ovulation and increase the chances of pregnancy.

If oral medication is unsuccessful, gonadotrophins or injectable hormones can also be used to induce ovulation. In some cases, assisted reproductive technologies such as In-Vitro Fertilization (IVF) may be recommended.

What Are The Long-Term Implications of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome?

PCOS can have far-reaching implications on a woman’s health. PCOS patients are at a higher risk of developing metabolic diseases such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.

Additionally, an increased risk of endometrial cancer has been linked to PCOS due to the imbalance in estrogen and progesterone levels.

Can Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome Be Prevented?

PCOS cannot be prevented, but adopting a healthy lifestyle can reduce the risk of developing the condition. Regular exercise and healthy eating habits can help maintain an ideal weight, reduce insulin resistance, and regulate the menstrual cycle.

Women with a family history of PCOS should also consider lowering their risk by early diagnosis and management of the symptoms.

Conclusion

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome can have detrimental effects on a woman’s fertility. Early diagnosis, lifestyle changes, and appropriate treatments can help manage the symptoms and improve the chances of conception in women with PCOS.

Women with PCOS can lead healthy and fulfilling lives by adopting a healthy lifestyle, managing the condition with appropriate medical care, and reducing the risk of long-term complications.