Polycystic ovary syndrome is a common hormonal disorder that impacts women of reproductive age. The condition alters the ovulation cycle, which can sometimes make becoming pregnant challenging. Fortunately, infertility treatments may be able to help in this situation. Learn more about PCOS, how it affects infertility, and some treatment options to consider.

An Overview of PCOS

PCOS is thought to result from both genetic and environmental factors. The larger ovaries that characterize the condition have small cysts that contain immature eggs. This upsets the hormonal balance of the endocrine system, which releases an excessive amount of the "male" hormone called androgen. The woman's body then converts androgen into estrogen.

As a result, periods change significantly in most PCOS patients, becoming infrequent, irregular, or, in some cases, prolonged.

PCOS & Infertility

Regular ovulation, in which the body releases fertile eggs, is a critical part of conception, but PCOS prevents the body from releasing eggs each month because of the surplus of estrogen. Also, the increased production of male hormones can influence the quality of eggs and lead to insulin resistance and increased odds of developing gestational diabetes.

Infertility Treatment Options

If you've been diagnosed with PCOS, meet with an infertility specialist to explore possible methods of conception. A first step might be starting birth control pills, which trigger a regular menstrual cycle and reduce androgen production.

Though you can’t become pregnant when on birth control, once periods have stabilized, your doctor can suggest further infertility treatments such as medication, injections, or in vitro fertilization.

While PCOS can hinder fertility, it is still entirely possible for a woman to conceive and have a healthy pregnancy even with this diagnosis.

If you have PCOS and want to start a family, meet with a fertility doctor at Pacific In Vitro Fertilization Institute to find solutions. They’ve provided infertility treatments to Honolulu residents since 1985. As Hawaii's first IVF clinic, they’ve established themselves as a leader in compassionate care and state-of-the-art fertility procedures. Call (808) 946-2226 or visit their website to discover all the treatments they offer.