Can polycystic ovary syndrome be cured?

Written by Li Shun Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Updated on December 15, 2024
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Polycystic ovary syndrome is a lifelong disease and is incurable. The causes of this disease are not very clear at present, but are mostly related to environmental and genetic factors. Therefore, it is important to exercise regularly and maintain a normal weight. Generally, the problem is not very serious, but if there is a severe endocrine disorder, it must be addressed, especially in women of childbearing age who experience irregular menstruation or infertility. It is necessary to check the endocrine system and regulate menstruation and promote ovulation based on the endocrine results. If there is a desire to conceive, oral contraceptives can be taken followed by treatments to regulate menstruation and promote ovulation. If there is no desire to conceive, menstruation should occur at least once every two months to avoid endometrial abnormalities.

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Written by He Bing
Obstetrics and Gynecology
1min 34sec home-news-image

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Pregnancy Rate

For women who plan to conceive, their biggest concern is whether polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) will affect their normal fertility. Normally, reproductive-aged women develop a group of 3-11 follicles each month, which after recruitment and selection, typically only one follicle fully matures and ovulates, while the other follicles degenerate after reaching a certain stage of development. However, in patients with PCOS, the ovaries contain many small and immature follicles, often more than 12. The amount of follicle-stimulating hormone secreted by the pituitary gland is not sufficient to support the development of even one follicle, leading to anovulation and infertility. For patients with PCOS who want to conceive, the greatest risk is infertility. Patients can control their weight and regulate their menstrual cycles by adjusting their lifestyle, or by using medication to induce ovulation. Generally, more than 95% of patients can successfully induce ovulation and achieve pregnancy through medication. However, the success rate of achieving pregnancy through induced ovulation after 6 attempts is only 75% to 80%. Even for those who ovulate naturally, the success rate of conception within a year is only 82%. Therefore, it is essential to be patient, as hurried efforts will not yield immediate results in treatment.

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Written by Shen Li Wen
Obstetrics and Gynecology
1min 8sec home-news-image

How to diagnose polycystic ovary syndrome?

When suspecting polycystic ovary syndrome in females, it is essential to first inquire about the woman's menstrual history and menstrual cycle. A detailed observation of the woman's body type should be made, as some women may appear somewhat overweight and have increased body hair, such as small mustaches around the lips, and some may even have acne on their faces. In addition, a thorough physical examination should be conducted, including a gynecological examination, where some women may find an increased volume in both ovaries. Hormonal tests can also be conducted, showing elevated levels of androgens, or an imbalance in the levels ratio of luteinizing hormone to follicle-stimulating hormone. Some women may exhibit insulin resistance, with abnormalities in blood glucose and lipid levels. Ultrasound examination can show many small follicles in both ovaries on the same plane, without a dominant follicle, and the number of small follicles generally exceeds 12.

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Written by Li Shun Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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What should I do if I don't get my period due to polycystic ovary syndrome?

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a metabolic disease and a lifelong condition that cannot be cured. The main symptom is irregular menstruation, which can manifest as infrequent menstrual periods or absence of menstruation. If menstruation does not occur for more than two months, it is essential to take oral progestogens, such as progesterone or dydrogesterone, for 12 days. After stopping the medication, menstruation should resume. This is mainly to protect the endometrium, as not menstruating for an extended period prevents it from shedding. Under the influence of unopposed estrogen, there might be excessive proliferation, leading to precancerous changes in the endometrial lining and potentially developing into endometrial cancer over time. Therefore, it is crucial to have a menstrual period at least every two months to protect the endometrium. (Medication should be taken under the guidance of a physician.)

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Written by Du Rui Xia
Obstetrics
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Can polycystic ovary syndrome conceive naturally?

In cases of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), some women are able to conceive naturally. Clinically, patients with PCOS mainly exhibit symptoms such as obesity, hirsutism, menstrual irregularities, and infertility. This is due to ovulatory dysfunction common in PCOS, which affects the ability to conceive naturally. However, some women may occasionally release a normal ovum, allowing for the possibility of natural conception under such conditions, though the likelihood of this occurring is relatively low. Generally, treatment is needed to facilitate the normal release of follicles, after which natural conception may be possible.

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Written by He Bing
Obstetrics and Gynecology
1min 51sec home-news-image

The fastest conception method for polycystic ovary syndrome

If patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) want to conceive as soon as possible, they can make efforts in the following areas: First, weight loss. Among patients with polycystic ovary syndrome, 67% are obese or overweight. Obesity for PCOS patients is not only unattractive but also brings metabolic disorders, reproductive health, and other hazards. Therefore, the first thing is to lose weight. However, weight loss should not rely solely on dieting; it requires a reasonable dietary arrangement combined with scientific exercise methods. Reducing or controlling weight can improve hyperinsulinemia, insulin resistance, and hyperandrogenemia, thereby restoring menstrual cycles, reducing hirsutism and symptoms, and greatly increasing the chances of conception. Second, medication-assisted treatment, mainly from three aspects: adjusting menstrual cycles, treating hyperandrogenemia, and treating insulin resistance. Third, ovulation induction and assisted reproduction. If a PCOS patient with a pregnancy desire cannot conceive naturally with normal male semen analysis, medication-induced ovulation and assisted reproductive technology can be considered to aid conception. Polycystic ovary syndrome is an endocrine metabolic disease and a chronic condition that requires long-term management. It cannot be resolved overnight. Patients need to maintain a relaxed attitude and proceed under the guidance of a professional doctor.