Featuring Toowoomba fertility specialist Dr Lanziz Homar
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder affecting individuals with ovaries, often leading to fertility challenges. At Rainbow Fertility, we are dedicated to supporting those with PCOS by providing comprehensive fertility care and helping them understand how this condition impacts their reproductive health.
In this blog article, Toowoomba fertility specialist Dr Lanziz Homar offers valuable insights into the relationship between PCOS and fertility, providing guidance and solutions to help you navigate your journey towards parenthood.
To diagnose the condition, an individual generally must experience two out of the following three symptoms:
PCOS is also frequently associated with significant weight gain, increased risk of insulin resistance and diabetes, heart disease, sleep apnoea and mental health issues such as anxiety and depression.
One of the primary ways PCOS affects fertility is through irregular ovulation. The hormonal imbalance in PCOS can prevent the ovaries from releasing an egg regularly, making it challenging to predict fertile windows. Without regular ovulation, the chances of conceiving naturally decrease.
Elevated levels of androgens can disrupt the normal functioning of the reproductive system. These hormonal imbalances can interfere with the development and release of eggs from the ovaries (ovulation), affecting fertility.
Many individuals with PCOS also experience insulin resistance, which can lead to higher levels of insulin in the body. Elevated insulin levels can further disrupt hormonal balance and ovulation, contributing to fertility challenges.
PCOS can affect the health of the endometrium (the uterus lining), making it less receptive to implantation. Irregular menstrual cycles can also cause the endometrium to become too thick or too thin, affecting the ability to sustain a pregnancy.
Despite the challenges, many individuals with the condition successfully conceive with the right treatment and support. Here are some fertility treatment options available at Rainbow Fertility:
Ovulation induction involves using medications to stimulate the ovaries to produce and release eggs.
Metformin is a medication commonly used to treat insulin resistance in individuals with PCOS. By improving insulin sensitivity, metformin can help restore regular ovulation and improve fertility outcomes.
While medical treatments are essential, lifestyle modifications can also play a significant role in improving fertility for those with PCOS. Maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, and engaging in regular physical activity can enhance fertility treatments’ effectiveness and overall reproductive health.
Fertility challenges can be emotionally taxing, especially for individuals with PCOS. At Rainbow Fertility, we offer counselling and emotional support services to help you navigate the emotional aspects of your fertility journey. Our compassionate team is here to provide a safe and supportive environment, ensuring you feel understood and cared for throughout the process.
Living with PCOS can present unique fertility challenges, but with the right knowledge, support, and treatment, achieving parenthood is possible. At Rainbow Fertility, we commit to helping you understand how PCOS affects your fertility and providing personalised care to support your reproductive goals.
For more information about PCOS and fertility treatment options at Rainbow Fertility, please visit our website or contact us directly. Our team is dedicated to helping you navigate your journey and achieve your dreams of parenthood.
For more detailed information, we recommend reading the following journal articles: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome or Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: Etiology, Current Management, and Future Therapeutics.