Polycystic ovary syndrome — PCOS — is a hormonal disorder among reproductive-aged women that causes enlarged ovaries with small cysts on the outer edges. Women who have been diagnosed with this condition by a gynecologist may experience irregular menstruation, acne, weight gain, and unwanted hair. They may also have more difficulty getting pregnant. Here’s how PCOS affects fertility and what you can do about it.

How Does PCOS Interfere With Pregnancy?

Women with PCOS produce higher-than-normal levels of androgens, which are considered male hormones. Ovulation may not occur due to an increase in these hormones, meaning you can’t get pregnant.

If ovulation does occur, hormonal imbalances can keep the lining of the uterus from developing properly to allow for implantation of the mature egg.

Additionally, PCOS can cause you to have irregular periods, which also makes it more difficult to get pregnant.

Can You Get Pregnant With PCOS?

While getting pregnant when you have PCOS is more difficult, it isn’t impossible. A gynecologist can prescribe you medications — like clomiphene or letrozole — to help you ovulate.

Making certain changes to your lifestyle may also help increase fertility. For example, if you’ve gained weight because of PCOS, it can negatively affect your hormones. Losing weight may help you regulate your hormones and make your menstrual cycles more regular. Reducing stress, exercising, and eating a low-glycemic diet may also improve your fertility odds.

If you’re still having trouble getting pregnant, a gynecologist may suggest fertility injections. These injections can help you produce more eggs every month, ultimately improving your odds of getting pregnant.

If you’re having difficulty getting pregnant, turn to the gynecologists at Caring for Women in Anchorage, AK. These professionals have been providing a wide range of women’s health services — including preventative care, pregnancy treatments, and gynecological surgeries — for over 20 years. They pride themselves in providing personalized and friendly service to help patients feel comfortable. To learn more about their services, call (907) 279-2229 or visit their website.