Can polycystic ovary syndrome get pregnant?

Written by He Bing
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Updated on September 04, 2024
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Patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) suffer from endocrine disorders, which prevent follicles from developing and maturing, leading to anovulation or rare ovulation, and consequently, amenorrhea and infertility. Although it is much more difficult for patients with PCOS to become pregnant compared to the average person, there is still a great hope for natural conception through a series of targeted treatments. For patients with reproductive needs, ovulation induction treatment can be chosen based on improved lifestyle habits. Under the guidance of a doctor, medications can be used to adjust menstrual cycles and stimulate ovulation. Then, by having intercourse around the time of ovulation, the chances of pregnancy can be increased. However, it is important to emphasize that all these should be conducted under the guidance of a professional doctor. The female endocrine system is like a precise instrument, and improper use of medication on one's own can potentially lead to endocrine disorders and result in infertility.

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Written by He Bing
Obstetrics and Gynecology
1min 19sec home-news-image

Management of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

For patients with polycystic ovary syndrome, the most important aspect is weight control. Patients need to engage in aerobic exercise at least 5 days a week, such as brisk walking, jogging, swimming, etc., each session lasting at least 30 minutes. Attention should also be paid to lifestyle adjustments: ensure a suitable living environment, change bad habits, and avoid staying up late; especially during long-term treatment, it is important to rest, maintain physical strength, and follow a nutritious diet. Be sure to dress appropriately with changing weather to avoid infections from bacteria, viruses, etc. Dietary adjustments involve long-term restriction of calorie intake, opting for low-sugar, high-fiber foods. A light diet with more high-quality protein is recommended. Quit smoking and drinking, and avoid high-sugar, high-fat, and spicy foods. Lastly, it’s crucial to stabilize emotions, focus on self-regulation, maintain an optimistic outlook, and avoid anger, depression, excessive tension, and long-term anxiety.

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Written by Wang Jing Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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The difference between polycystic and polycystic ovary syndrome

Some women may discover they have polycystic ovaries during occasional gynecological exams. If their menstrual cycle is regular, with good ovulation, and does not affect pregnancy, then it is just a polycystic ovarian state, not called polycystic ovary syndrome. Polycystic ovary syndrome primarily involves irregular menstruation, poor ovulation, and difficulty in becoming pregnant. The condition of polycystic ovary syndrome varies greatly among individuals; some show clear signs of high androgens or have laboratory tests indicating high androgen levels, and many people experience a significant increase in luteinizing hormone, among other symptoms. Therefore, these are two different conditions.

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Written by Zhang Xiu Rong
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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What foods should be eaten with polycystic ovary syndrome?

The characteristics of polycystic ovary syndrome include amenorrhea, obesity, infertility, acne, hirsutism, and hormone level tests generally indicate high testosterone, high luteinizing hormone, and low estrogen levels. Therefore, dietary intake should avoid large portions of meat, high-fat, and high-calorie foods. It is beneficial to consume more vegetables and fruits, and foods that are high in estrogen levels, such as beans and soy products, especially soy milk made from black soybeans. Besides pharmacological treatments, it is crucial for patients with polycystic ovary syndrome to regulate their daily routines and diet. If a patient is significantly overweight, it is essential to lose weight through exercise.

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Written by He Bing
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Can polycystic ovary syndrome be treated with surgery?

Polycystic ovary syndrome can be treated surgically. There are two methods of surgical treatment. For patients with high levels of luteinizing hormone and testosterone, laparoscopic ovarian drilling can be performed, which has advantages such as definite therapeutic effect, minimal injury, and moderate cost. Possible issues with laparoscopic ovarian drilling include ineffective treatment, pelvic adhesion, and reduced ovarian function. Previously, ovarian wedge resection was commonly used, which could lower androgen levels, alleviate symptoms of hirsutism, and increase pregnancy rates. However, due to the high incidence of adhesions around the ovaries after surgery, this method is no longer commonly used clinically.

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Written by Zhang Xiu Rong
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Can polycystic ovary syndrome naturally conceive?

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is characterized by symptoms such as amenorrhea, obesity, infertility, acne, and hirsutism. In cases of PCOS, the chances of natural conception are slim unless one regularly maintains a disciplined lifestyle, manages PCOS through exercise, weight loss, and a regulated life routine which normalizes hormone levels, thus enabling normal ovulation and the possibility of natural conception. Otherwise, a distinctive feature of PCOS is anovulation, and to achieve conception, hormone levels must be normalized. Once hormone levels are normalized, some individuals may ovulate on their own, while others may need medication to stimulate ovulation. Therefore, the chances of natural conception with PCOS are very low.