Polycystic ovary syndrome is a common hormonal condition that can impact fertility. However, if you’ve been diagnosed with PCOS and are concerned about your ability to get pregnant, know that many women with PCOS successfully conceive and have safe and healthy pregnancies.
You’re in capable hands when you choose Ideal Gynecology, LLC for your women’s health needs. Lillian Schapiro, MD, Olivia Taylor, WHNP, and the rest of our team are dedicated to providing superior women’s health services to help you navigate all phases of life with confidence.
Although PCOS can make it more challenging to get pregnant due to imbalances in hormones that disrupt ovulation, treatment can improve your chances of getting pregnant.
Women with PCOS have higher than normal androgens (male hormones) and as a result experience issues such as irregular periods.
The hormonal imbalances can interfere with ovulation, which is the process of releasing an egg from the ovary. This doesn't mean you can't ovulate at all, but it might be less predictable and occur less frequently if you have PCOS.
Even though PCOS can present challenges, there are many ways to increase your chances of getting pregnant. Maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, and exercising regularly can help regulate hormones and improve ovulation.
Adopting a low-glycemic diet is shown to have significant benefit in improving PCOS and the reproductive profile of women with PCOS.
A low-glycemic diet emphasizes foods that release glucose slowly into the bloodstream, which improves insulin sensitivity. Insulin resistance is a common feature in many women with PCOS, which results in elevated insulin levels.
High insulin levels can stimulate the ovaries to produce excess androgens, disrupting ovulation and contributing to PCOS symptoms. By eating low-GI foods, you can stabilize your blood sugar levels, reduce insulin resistance, and lower androgen levels, ultimately improving ovulation and fertility outcomes.
Additionally, Dr. Schapiro may prescribe medications to induce ovulation, such as clomiphene citrate or letrozole. If dietary changes and medication aren’t successful, Dr. Schapiro may discuss assisted reproductive technologies options like in vitro fertilization.
If you do get pregnant with PCOS, your obstetrician will work closely with you to manage unique challenges that can arise in women with PCOS, such as gestational diabetes. This may involve monitoring blood sugar levels. Maintaining a healthy weight and attending regular checkups are also essential for a healthy pregnancy.
If you're struggling to get pregnant or have concerns about PCOS, our team is here to help. We offer comprehensive care for women with PCOS, from diagnosis and treatment to pregnancy and postpartum support.
Contact us at Ideal Gynecology to schedule an appointment today to discuss your individual needs and create a personalized plan to help you achieve your fertility goals.
