Pregnancy in women with PCOS

Expert insights on managing PCOS during pregnancy

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is an endocrine disease that disrupts the menstrual cycle and can cause infertility. Accordingly, such a diagnosis can significantly reduce the chances of a successful pregnancy.

The main symptoms of PCOS are as follows:

— increased levels of male-type sex hormones

— irregular periods or lack of ovulation

— an ultrasound scan showing polycystic ovarian structure.

Important: at least two of the three symptoms are required to make a diagnosis.

Why does PCOS interfere with pregnancy?

The main problem is irregular ovulation or its complete absence; therefore, a woman will need the doctors’ help in such a situation. But before you restore or stimulate ovulation, it is essential to go through a few more steps.

To get pregnant with PCOS, it is first of all important to get tested to rule out other factors that prevent pregnancy. In this regard, a fertility specialist will prescribe a number of examinations based on your medical history.

Next, you need to normalize your weight, since it is widespread for women with PCOS to be diagnosed with obesity or overweight.

And only after the examination and weight normalization will the doctor prescribe ovulation stimulation with special hormonal preparations. At this stage, the doctor will monitor the growth of the egg on an ultrasound scan and, on the right day, introduce a trigger. With this preparation, the chances of a natural pregnancy increase markedly, despite the PCOS diagnosis.

According to this scheme, you can stimulate your ovulation up to 6 times. In addition, you can conduct an IUI to increase the chances further.

If it is impossible to establish ovulation or pregnancy still does not occur, the doctor will suggest considering an IVF protocol.