Polycystic Ovaries and Infertility – Understanding the Connection


Cysts in the ovaries lead to a condition called polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Polycystic ovaries (PCO) cause hormone imbalance, irregular menstrual cycles, and difficulty in getting pregnant. The root cause of the problem is that multiple follicles or eggs experience arrested growth. This means they stop growing before attaining maturity and are released into the fallopian tubes.
If you are struggling with fertility problems due to PCO, it is essential to seek expert medical advice early. IVF Spring Fertility Centre offers personalised treatment options that can help women with PCOS. By understanding the unique challenges of each patient, we offer tailored fertility treatments for PCOS that provide hope for achieving pregnancy.
What are the causes of PCOS & PCO?
It is estimated that over 20% of women suffer from PCO condition, though it may not have reached the full-blown PCOS stage. PCO and PCOS differ in that while the women suffering from the former have multiple cysts in the ovaries, women suffering from PCOS have an accompanying imbalance of hormones, and other polycystic ovaries symptoms present as well.
While it has not been possible for experts to determine the root cause of PCOS, it is thought that the syndrome is a result of a combination of genetic and environmental factors. One theory says that women with PCOS suffer from insulin resistance when the resulting blood levels of insulin are high. This causes ovaries to release large amounts of the hormone called testosterone. Other hormones that go out of balance are LH (Luteinizing hormone) and SHBG (sex hormone binding globulin).
What are the Fertility Problems with PCOS?
Polycystic ovarian syndrome and infertility are related. The hormone imbalance that results from PCOD and PCOS leads to infertility. Because of the inability to develop the eggs to maturity in the ovaries due to wrong hormone levels, ovulation does not happen when it should. The underdeveloped egg remains as a cyst in the ovary. Here are some key fertility problems associated with PCOS:
Irregular Ovulation: Due to hormone imbalances, women with PCOS often experience irregular or absent ovulation, making it difficult to time conception.
Underdeveloped Eggs: The follicles in the ovaries often stop growing before they reach maturity, leaving underdeveloped eggs that cannot be released during ovulation. These eggs may form cysts in the ovaries.
Excess Male Hormones: Elevated levels of androgens (male hormones) can interfere with normal follicular development, making it harder for the ovaries to produce healthy, mature eggs.
Irregular Menstrual Cycles: Women with PCOS may experience infrequent or absent periods, which complicates efforts to track ovulation for conception.
Insulin Resistance: Many women with PCOS also suffer from insulin resistance, which can lead to higher insulin levels, further disrupting hormone balance and ovulation.
Increased Risk of Miscarriage: Women with untreated PCOS may have a higher risk of miscarriage, which factors like insulin resistance or hormonal imbalances can exacerbate.
Fertility Treatments for PCOS
Infertility is treated by providing medication for the improvement of fertility. This effect stimulates the ovaries to ovulate and produce more mature eggs. However, there is a risk of multiple births because of this treatment. However, in the case of IVF (in-vitro fertilization) treatment, ovulation and maturation of the eggs take place in a controlled fashion. Here, the eggs are collected and fertilised outside the body and placed back in the womb.
It has been observed that women with PCOS show a good response to IVF treatment. However, there is a danger of hyperstimulation of the ovaries in such cases, leading to a condition known as OHSS (Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome,) which leads to a whole new set of symptoms due to swelling of the ovaries and can be potentially dangerous.
At IVF Spring Fertility Centre, we offer advanced and very personalised fertility treatments for PCOS to address your specific needs. Our expert team works with you to tailor a treatment plan that is best suited for your condition. We also provide IVF treatment options that minimise the risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), ensuring a smoother journey towards parenthood. Whether through medication or IVF, we are dedicated to providing the support and care you need to overcome fertility challenges caused by PCOS.
Success of Embryo Cryopreservation and Thawing
Success rates of using frozen embryos for pregnancies are increasing regularly. Success rates of frozen embryos can be comparable to using fresh embryos under most circumstances. For women above the age of 38, the success rate of using embryo cryopreservation and thawing for pregnancies is much higher as the embryos used will have been frozen when they were much younger.
At IVF Spring, we understand that every fertility journey is unique. Whether you are looking to freeze embryos for future use or are considering the option of using frozen embryos, our experienced team of fertility specialists is here to guide you through every step of the process.
Ovarian Cyst Treatment in Mumbai
Ovarian cysts are a common symptom of PCOS, and addressing them is crucial in managing fertility. Ovarian cyst treatment generally includes hormonal therapy, medication to regulate ovulation, and, in some cases, surgical intervention. The aim is to balance hormones, reduce the size of cysts, and promote regular ovulation.
- Hormonal treatments: Birth control pills or progesterone therapy can regulate the menstrual cycle and reduce the formation of cysts.
- Lifestyle changes: Maintaining a healthy weight and eating a balanced diet can help regulate insulin levels and improve overall hormone balance.
- Surgery: In some cases, cysts may need to be surgically removed, particularly if they are causing pain or preventing ovulation
Why Choose Us?
At IVF Spring Fertility Centre, we offer comprehensive care for women struggling with infertility due to PCOS. Our team of experienced fertility specialists understands the emotional and physical challenges that PCOS presents, and we are here to guide you every step of the way. We use cutting-edge technology and personalised treatment plans to help you achieve your dream of becoming a parent.
- Expert Care
- 15 years of Experience
- Advanced Technology
- Supportive Environment
If you are struggling with fertility problems due to PCOS, it’s time to take the next step. Book a consultation with IVF Spring Fertility Centre today, and let us help you navigate the path to parenthood. Our expert team is here to listen, offer advice, and create personalised fertility treatments for PCOS plans to suit your unique needs. From medication to IVF, we offer a range of solutions to help you achieve a successful pregnancy.
Contact us today to schedule your consultation. Let us help you make your dream of having a family a reality.