Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent hormonal disorder affecting approximately 40% of women who face infertility issues. Despite its prevalence, many remain unaware of the condition, leading to underdiagnosis and delayed treatment. PCOS primarily manifests through hormonal imbalances rather than the presence of cysts, commonly influencing cholesterol levels, insulin regulation, and weight gain. It is the most frequent endocrine disorder among women of reproductive age.

Recognizing the symptoms of PCOS is crucial for timely diagnosis and management. Key symptoms include:

• Irregular or abnormal menstrual cycles, with either unusually light or heavy bleeding.
• Rapid weight gain or difficulty losing weight.
• Bloating and discomfort in the lower abdomen.
• Darkened patches of skin.
• Excessive facial and body hair.
• Acne.

PCOS is typically diagnosed through clinical assessment of symptoms and confirmed via ultrasound, which can detect the presence of multiple follicles that characterize the condition. Understanding the difference between polycystic ovaries (PCO) and Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is critical, as not all cases of PCO lead to the syndrome or affect fertility.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a significant contributor to female infertility, primarily due to two critical issues it can cause: hormonal and insulin imbalances.

A hormonal imbalance in PCOS results in higher than usual levels of male hormones, or androgens, which can inhibit the ovaries from releasing eggs. This leads to irregular menstrual cycles and can significantly challenge your ability to get pregnant. Additionally, PCOS can cause insulin resistance, complicating your body's ability to regulate blood sugar levels effectively. Elevated insulin levels can affect ovulation, further decreasing fertility potential.

If you suspect you have PCOS, its essential to consult a doctor before attempting to conceive. Temporary measures, such as taking oral contraceptive pills, can correct hormonal imbalances and manage symptoms. However, making lifestyle changes, including diet and exercise, can also help manage PCOS and improve your chances of conceiving naturally.

Maintaining a healthy body mass index (BMI) between 18.5 and 24.9 is crucial for managing PCOS symptoms, particularly to regulate ovulation. Weight loss is often recommended as the initial step for women with PCOS; however, due to the disorder's nature, losing weight can be challenging. Consulting with a fertility specialist at Genea is advisable to ensure you approach weight loss in a healthy and effective manner, tailored to your specific needs.

Depending on the severity of PCOS and its symptoms, your doctor may recommend various medical treatments:

• Fertility Drugs: Medications such as clomiphene, letrozole, and gonadotrophins are often prescribed to stimulate ovulation and improve fertility.
• Surgical Options: In more severe cases, surgical interventions may be necessary to restore normal ovulation and increase the chances of conception.

For those with PCOS struggling to conceive naturally, Genea provides a comprehensive array of fertility treatments. At Genea, we are committed to helping you manage PCOS effectively and achieve your fertility goals through a combination of lifestyle interventions, medical treatments, and personalized fertility therapies.

Our expert team is dedicated to assisting you through every step of the journey towards parenthood, offering advanced options like IVF, ICSI, and egg freezing, along with personalized support to optimize your treatment outcomes.

Get all your questions answered and receive guidance on your next steps from our Fertility team.

Genea's team of fertility experts are here to answer all your questions about infertility and provide tailored solutions, whether you're just starting to explore your options or seeking advanced treatments. By understanding and managing PCOS effectively, you can significantly enhance your chances for a successful pregnancy.