Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common hormonal conditions affecting individuals during their reproductive years, often presenting unique challenges when it comes to family building. Those diagnosed with PCOS typically have higher-than-average levels of androgens, which can lead to irregular periods, weight gain, acne, and increased body hair. These hormonal imbalances can make conception more difficult. However, at Main Line Fertility, our experienced fertility specialists are here to guide individuals and couples with PCOS on their path to growing their families.
What Causes PCOS?
While the exact cause of PCOS is unknown, contributing factors include:
- Insulin resistance: The pancreas produces insulin, which enables cells to utilize sugar. If the cells become resistant to insulin, blood sugar levels can rise. In response, the body may produce more insulin to lower these blood sugar levels. However, elevated insulin levels can lead to an excess of androgens, which may result in difficulties with ovulation.
- Low-grade inflammation: White blood cells produce substances in response to infection or injury, a process known as low-grade inflammation. Individuals with PCOS experience a type of chronic low-grade inflammation that causes the ovaries to produce androgens.
- Genetics: Certain genes are associated with PCOS, and a family history of this condition may play a role.
- Excess androgen: In PCOS, the ovaries produce elevated levels of androgen, which disrupts ovulation. As a result, eggs do not develop regularly and are not released.
Symptoms of PCOS
PCOS symptoms often begin around the time of the first menstrual period, but they can also develop later in life. While symptoms vary, common issues include:
- Irregular periods: Individuals with PCOS may have few or irregular menstrual periods, which can also last many days longer than normal.
- Too much androgen: High levels of androgens, including testosterone, can lead to excess facial and body hair, as well as severe acne.
- Polycystic ovaries: People with PCOS may have larger ovaries, and follicles containing immature eggs may develop around the edge of these ovaries.
PCOS complications include infertility, gestational diabetes, miscarriage or premature birth, sleep apnea, depression and anxiety, and endometrial cancer. Additionally, obesity is common in individuals with PCOS and can worsen complications of the condition.
Diagnosing and Treating PCOS
A doctor may diagnose PCOS by asking a patient questions about their menstrual cycle and conducting a physical exam. They may also perform a pelvic exam, ultrasound, and blood tests.
PCOS can be treated using birth control pills to regularize periods, a medication called metformin to prevent diabetes, statins to control high cholesterol, and hormones to increase fertility. Fertility treatments like intrauterine insemination (IUI) and in vitro fertilization (IVF) may help patients with PCOS conceive.
