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PCOS and Infertility – What You Can Do

PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) is often linked with female fertility issues. PCOS can be a problem for several women who are dealing with this condition and want to conceive. Fortunately, there are many fertility treatments available for women who want to get pregnant.

What is PCOS?
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is actually quite common and affects 5%-10% of women. In this condition, the ovaries start having tiny cysts. While the cause of PCOS isn’t exactly known, and there is no-known cure for it, there are several treatment options.

Treatment options
The treatment starts as soon as PCOS is diagnosed. If you’re not trying to get pregnant, the doctor will prescribe birth control pills for you – they will regulate your hormones. However, if you DO want to get pregnant, you obviously can’t take birth control pills. In that case, the doctor will give you injectable hormones that will help you get a regular cycle, which is very important for getting pregnant. And then there are some natural ways to regulate your cycle. One of them is to keep your weight under control by exercising and eating right.

Risks associated with PCOS
Before you try to get pregnant, you should be aware of the fact that PCOS can cause some complications in pregnancy. It can lead to hypertension, premature delivery, and in severe cases, even miscarriage.

Don’t despair – You can still get pregnant!
Now that you know all the basics about PCOS, take a deep breath and relax. The good thing is that you can still be pregnant and have a healthy baby. Here is what you need to do:

• Talk to your obstetrician that you’re planning a family. She will change your medicine and provide initial guidance.
• Maintain a chart of your cycle and note down the entries for several months before you try to get pregnant. This way, you will have a better idea about your cycle.
• If non-invasive drugs don’t work, talk to the doctor about in-vitro fertilization.
• After you conceive, maintain a healthy lifestyle and eat nutritious food.

Just remember – PCOS isn’t the end of the world. There are many women who suffer from PCOS and still get pregnant without any medical intervention, and deliver healthy babies. So just because you have PCOS doesn’t mean you can’t get pregnant. Discuss PCOS fertility options with your doctor and she’ll guide you better.