Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder among women of reproductive age. One of the challenges many people with PCOS face is difficulty conceiving. PCOS can lead to various symptoms that impact fertility, including irregular menstrual cycles, hormonal imbalance, and multiple small cysts on the ovaries. Fertility can be negatively affected by these hormonal imbalances and physical changes in several ways. Several treatment options are available to improve fertility in people with PCOS, including lifestyle changes contributing to better pregnancy outcomes.
How Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) Impacts Fertility
In some people with PCOS, the symptoms can significantly impact fertility. these include:
- Irregular or lack of ovulation (i.e., the release of a mature egg from the ovaries) makes it challenging to conceive naturally
- High androgen hormone levels can contribute to hormonal imbalances and interfere with fertility
- Insulin resistance can elevate insulin levels, which in turn causes the ovaries to produce more androgens, further disrupting ovulation and fertility
- An abnormal uterine lining makes the uterus less likely to receive a fertilized egg for implantation
- Weight gain and obesity worsen hormonal imbalances, compromising fertility
PCOS Fertility Treatment Options
There are several treatment options for people with infertility from PCOS.
Medications
The first line of treatment for PCOS is often medication, including clomiphene citrate or Letrozole, which helps to induce ovulation.
Fertility Treatments
Intrauterine Insemination (IUI): IUI is a treatment where sperm is directly placed into the uterus, enhancing the chances of pregnancy by reducing the distance the sperm must travel to reach the egg.
In Vitro Fertilization (IVF): IVF is a medical procedure that involves retrieving the eggs from the ovaries, fertilizing the eggs in a lab, and then transferring the embryos into the uterus.
Nutritional Supplements: Certain supplements, like inositol, may help improve insulin sensitivity and subsequently improve ovarian function in people with PCOS.
Lifestyle Tips to Support Fertility with PCOS
Understanding lifestyle factors that support fertility is crucial if you have PCOS and are having difficulty conceiving. Some essential lifestyle considerations to keep in mind include:
- Eating a healthy diet rich in antioxidants and nutrients
- Maintaining a healthy body weight
- Exercising regularly with your healthcare provider’s approval
- Quitting smoking, drinking alcohol, or using other substances
- Managing any related medical conditions, such as diabetes
- Getting between 8-10 hours of high-quality sleep every night
- Staying hydrated
- Managing stress
BUNDL Your Fertility Treatment Costs
If you are trying to lower stress as part of your PCOS fertility treatment plan, you may know how stressful it is to navigate the financial uncertainties of seeking fertility treatment. This is where BUNDL can help – we offer customizable multicycle fertility care packages for IUI and IVF at a discounted rate at one up-front cost. Our plans also offer an additional layer of financial protection with shared-risk IVF guarantees. Schedule a meeting with us today to find out how BUNDL can help you start your family planning journey with peace of mind and confidence.