If you have been diagnosed with PCOS and are trying to conceive, you may feel overwhelmed and frustrated. But the good news is that with the right medical care and lifestyle changes, you can still get pregnant with PCOS.
Let’s explore how to get pregnant with PCOS and we hope this information will help you feel empowered to take control of your fertility journey and achieve your dream of starting or growing your family.
What is PCOS and how it affects fertility?
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder that affects women of reproductive age.
Women with PCOS have higher levels of androgens (male hormones) than normal, which can lead to irregular or absent menstrual periods, infertility, and other symptoms such as acne, excess hair growth, and weight gain.
PCOS can affect fertility in several ways. One of the most common ways is by disrupting the normal ovulation process.
Another way that PCOS can affect fertility is by causing insulin resistance, which can lead to high blood sugar levels and an overproduction of insulin. This can disrupt the balance of hormones in the body and interfere with ovulation and fertility.
Women with PCOS may also be at increased risk for other reproductive problems, such as miscarriage and premature delivery, which can further complicate their efforts to conceive.
Despite these challenges, it is still possible for women with PCOS to conceive and carry a healthy pregnancy to term with the right medical care, lifestyle changes, and fertility treatments.
Can I get pregnant with PCOS naturally?
Yes, it is possible to get pregnant with PCOS naturally.
However, it may be more challenging as irregular ovulation or lack of ovulation is a common symptom of PCOS.
Making lifestyle changes, tracking ovulation, and having regular intercourse during the fertile window can increase the chances of conception.
What is the best age to get pregnant with PCOS?
The best age to get pregnant with PCOS is generally before 35 because the chances of a successful pregnancy decrease with age.
Women with PCOS may face more challenges when trying to conceive, so it’s important to consult a healthcare provider to discuss individual factors and potential fertility treatments.
How do I know If am ovulating with PCOS?
Women with PCOS can experience irregular periods or anovulation, which can make it challenging to track ovulation.
Regardless, there are some methods to determine ovulation, such as tracking basal body temperature, monitoring cervical mucus changes, using ovulation predictor kits, and undergoing ultrasounds or blood tests to measure hormone levels.
It’s best to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice on how to track ovulation with PCOS.
What are the chances of getting pregnant with PCOS? – 3 Tips
The chances of getting pregnant with PCOS vary depending on individual factors such as age, weight, and overall health.
Nevertheless, with appropriate treatment and lifestyle changes, many women with PCOS are able to conceive and have successful pregnancies.
1. Lifestyle changes to support fertility
Lifestyle changes play a crucial role in supporting fertility, especially for those with PCOS. If you are diagnosed with PCOD you could try some of these lifestyle changes that may boost your chances of getting pregnant.
- Maintaining a healthy body weight through diet and exercise
- Reducing stress levels through relaxation techniques or therapy
- Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol consumption
- Getting enough sleep and practicing good sleep hygiene
- Incorporating fertility-boosting foods and supplements into the diet, such as omega-3 fatty acids, folic acid, and vitamin D
- Managing any underlying health conditions, such as diabetes or high blood pressure
- Avoiding exposure to environmental toxins and pollutants, such as pesticides or certain chemicals in plastics
- Incorporating moderate exercise into the daily routine, such as yoga or brisk walking, to support overall health and well-being.
2. Exercise and diet to get pregnant with PCOS
Diet and exercise play a significant role in managing PCOS and improving fertility. Here are some recommendations:
- Eating a balanced and nutritious diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats can help manage PCOS symptoms and improve fertility.
- Focus on low-glycemic index foods that won’t spike your blood sugar, such as leafy greens, berries, and beans.
- Limit processed and sugary foods that can worsen PCOS symptoms, lead to weight gain, and negatively impact fertility.
- Incorporate regular exercise to help regulate hormones, improve insulin sensitivity, and aid in weight management.
- Consider resistance training such as weightlifting or bodyweight exercises, which can improve insulin sensitivity and boost metabolism, helping to manage
- PCOS symptoms and improve fertility.
- Consult with a registered dietitian who will help plan and manage PCOS and improve fertility.
3. Fertility treatments for PCOS
There are several fertility treatments available for women with PCOS who are struggling to conceive:
Ovulation induction:
Medications such as clomiphene citrate or letrozole can stimulate ovulation in women with PCOS.
Injectable gonadotropins:
These hormones can also be used to stimulate ovulation in women who do not respond to clomiphene or letrozole.
In vitro fertilization (IVF):
In cases where other treatments have not been successful, IVF can be used to retrieve eggs and fertilize them outside the body before implanting them into the uterus.
Laparoscopic ovarian drilling:
This surgical procedure can be used to treat PCOS-related infertility by making small holes in the ovaries to reduce androgen production and promote ovulation.
Use of donor eggs:
In cases where the woman’s own eggs are not viable, donor eggs can be used for fertilization.
Increase your chances of conceiving with PCOS with Jammi Scans
PCOS can make it more challenging to conceive, but there are several treatment options available that can improve fertility outcomes.
It’s essential to work with a healthcare professional who specializes in PCOS and fertility to determine the best treatment plan for your individual needs.
With the right support and guidance, it is possible to overcome the challenges of PCOS and achieve a healthy pregnancy. Get in touch with us now!
Chennai Women’s Clinic is now Jammi Scans
