How does PCOS / PCOD affect your fertility and how to manage it?
Polycystic Ovarian Disease (PCOD) which is also known as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common disorder that affects 5% to 10% of women who are in their childbearing age. This problem is associated with irregular periods and hormonal imbalances that lead to infertility. In a year, women with PCOS get only 7-8 periods.
The root cause of this is unknown thus various factors are held responsible for PCOD.
What is the meaning of PCOS/PCOD?
It is a disorder in which a polycystic female does not complete the menstrual cycle which stimulates ovulation. The eggs in the ovary are not mature enough to be released into the uterus.
As a result, ovulation does not take place and the unfertilized egg clings to the walls of the ovaries and forms cysts.
What is the cause of PCOS?
PCOS can be triggered by a number of factors. The exact reason is no different. However, it causes a hormonal imbalance that impedes ovulation.
There is insufficient production of follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone (FSH & LH) in women with PCOS.
As a result, they undergo limited follicular development. Hormonal imbalances are also found to be associated with insulin resistance.
Does PCOS affect female fertility?
PCOS causes an imbalance of female hormones which leads to fertility issues. Abnormal hormones produce many symptoms and some of them affect pregnancy.
Usually affected women need medical help to get pregnant. This is because they do not ovulate every month.
In addition, weight gain decreases fertility and may delay conception. However, this disorder is curable and females can get pregnant and give birth to healthy babies.
Such patients are more likely to have infertility than others, however, they need contraception to prevent an unplanned pregnancy.
How can I manage my PCOS situation?
With the help of a specialist, one can easily reduce the symptoms of PCOD, be fertile, get pregnant, and live a healthy life.
As per the view of Dr. Shivani Bhutani, you can better manage the effects of polycystic ovaries by working on an appropriate therapeutic approach together.
PCOS can be managed by following three ways:
Medical treatment
Lifestyle
Natural ways
Management of PCOS with medical treatment
As your doctor will advise, there are various medical treatments available to overcome fertility issues and manage the symptoms of PCOS.
The main purpose of the medication is to control symptoms such as irregular periods, infertility, abnormal hair growth, acne and weight gain.
Many drugs given to patients maintain appropriate hormone levels, reduce insulin resistance, control weight, and reduce stress.
It may include the following:
Birth control pill – for regular menstruation cycle
Metformin-Insulin Resistance
Drugs to influence ovulation
Anti-anxiety pills – to relax the nerves
Gonadotrophins- to stimulate FSH & LH
PCOS Management with Lifestyle Changes
An IVF specialist Dr. Shivani Bhutani from Eva IVF & Infertility Hospital, Ludhiana recommends lifestyle changes to manage the symptoms of PCOD and prevent future complications.
You can also read: Women Can Lessen Their Suffering with Early Detection of PCOS
Reduce Carbohydrate & Sugar intake
Most women with polycystic syndrome suffer from insulin resistance. Thus, the body does not use the hormone insulin to digest sugar and carbohydrates.
It causes abnormal blood sugar and calorie release. Replace the diet with food items that have low fat but high in fiber.
Put a cap on the refined carbs. Avoid consuming soda, canned juice, and rely on vegetables, fruits, poultry and grains.
Adjust body weight
Most of the women with PCOS are overweight and obese. Losing more weight reduces the severity of symptoms.
Exercise regularly
Performing regular workouts corrects body mass index, lowers insulin resistance and reduces stress. It also balances the production of significant hormones like testosterone.
Managing PCOS by natural methods
It is great to adopt healthy habits and quit harmful things like smoking, or excessive drinking.
So there are some natural and alternative methods, which can suit anyone. You can consult your doctor regarding this.
There is the availability of yoga asanas, vitamins, fish oils, and herbal naturopathic supplements like pills or tablets. It all depends on the individual case and the problem you want to solve.
Lastly
PCOS or PCOD affects your fertility but it can be completely controlled.
In addition to pregnancy, anyone can cope with its symptoms effectively with the suggestion of a specialist doctor as well as cover all future related risks and complications.
At last, if you treat your condition as early as possible then it would be beneficial in the long run.
Content originally published at IVF CENTRE IN INDIA
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