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The Link Between PCOS and Infertility

The Link Between PCOS and Infertility

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) affects women of childbearing age and, in some cases, can be a cause of infertility. If you have difficulties achieving or maintaining a pregnancy, you can find the high-quality care you deserve at Raveco Medical.

Our skilled OB/GYNs use advanced technologies to diagnose PCOS and determine if the condition contributes to infertility challenges.

We also provide customized care plans to manage PCOS symptoms and to improve your chances of successful conception and a viable pregnancy. Our team recommends effective treatments that align with your existing health and plans for expanding your family.

What to know about PCOS and infertility

PCOS causes issues that affect a woman’s metabolic processes and hormone balance. The condition results when high levels of androgen hormones are present.

Androgens are male hormones that women also have in lesser amounts than men. High androgen levels can cause women to experience chronic acne, high insulin levels, and facial hair growth.

The hormone imbalance associated with PCOS also triggers the growth of fluid-filled cysts in the ovaries, as well as a thickening of the outer ovarian lining. These issues might interfere with a woman’s ovulation cycle, leading to irregular or missed periods and difficulties becoming pregnant.

While women who have PCOS can become pregnant, 70-80% experience fertility challenges. If you’re unable to get pregnant after having unprotected sex for six months or longer, speak with our OB/GYNs to learn more about the available treatments for PCOS and infertility.

How PCOS treatment can boost your fertility

Our Raveco Medical team customizes a care plan for PCOS symptoms. Some PCOS treatments can also significantly boost your fertility by regulating your ovulation cycle.

Depending on your existing health and plans for family, our providers might recommend PCOS treatments like:

There’s also a laparoscopic surgery available known as ovarian drilling. During the procedure, we remove tissue that produces excess androgen hormones to regulate ovulation.

If PCOS treatments aren’t working well to address infertility, our physicians reevaluate your health to determine if you need specialized care. We work with a network of fertility specialists who can discuss your options for in vitro fertilization (IVF) or artificial insemination to achieve a healthy pregnancy.

Additional ways to manage PCOS and enhance your fertility

In addition to our team’s medical guidance, you can take steps to manage PCOS symptoms and prevent additional complications.

Here are four strategies to incorporate into your routine:

1. Weight loss

Losing even a small percentage of excess body weight can significantly improve PCOS symptoms. Shedding excess pounds also supports fertility and a healthy pregnancy.

If you’re not sure where to start on your journey, speak with our team about meal plans, exercises, and other weight loss strategies you can use based on your unique health needs.

2. Sleep well

Consistent high-quality sleep is critical for hormone regulation. Make a point of going to bed and waking up at the same time each day to reset your circadian rhythm.

3. Be mindful of stress

Keeping stress well controlled helps regulate your cortisol hormones. This is important because high cortisol levels can increase insulin production and ultimately make your PCOS symptoms worse.

4. Limit inflammatory foods

Foods such as dairy products, alcohol, and gluten trigger inflammation in the body, which can intensify PCOS symptoms. Choose fresh, organic foods when possible, and limit your use of sugary, salty, and processed foods.

For more tips on managing PCOS-related infertility, call Raveco Medical in Woodside or Forest Hills, New York, today. You can also use the online feature to book an appointment. 

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