Can polycystic ovary syndrome naturally conceive?

Written by Li Lin
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Updated on November 09, 2024
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Polycystic ovary syndrome is an endocrine disorder characterized by reproductive dysfunction and abnormalities in glucose metabolism, with persistent anovulation, excess androgens, and insulin resistance as its main features. Therefore, patients with polycystic ovary syndrome often suffer from infertility. The use of medication to reduce androgens, stimulate ovarian ovulation, control insulin resistance, combined with weight loss, can lead to the resumption of ovulation in the ovaries, thus allowing natural conception in polycystic ovary syndrome.

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Written by Liu Wei Jie
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Is the chance of getting pregnant with polycystic ovary syndrome high?

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) manifests as absent or irregular menstrual periods, and is also associated with obesity, hirsutism, insulin metabolism disorders, as well as elevated blood sugar and cholesterol levels. The mechanism behind the development of PCOS is unclear but may be related to genetic factors, diet, and lack of exercise. Due to the irregular menstrual cycles, which stem from anovulation (lack of ovulation), the likelihood of pregnancy decreases. It is challenging to calculate the specific probability of pregnancy, but overall, the chances of becoming pregnant with PCOS are very low, although there is still a possibility. Treatment for PCOS generally starts with lifestyle changes, such as avoiding staying up late and refraining from eating sweets. Weight management is also crucial; weight gain is recommended for those who are underweight, whereas weight loss is advised for those who are overweight, along with appropriate exercise.

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Written by Wang Jing Hua
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What is the best treatment for polycystic ovary syndrome?

Polycystic ovary syndrome varies greatly among individuals, and clinical manifestations are very different. The specific condition of each person is different, hence the treatment methods also vary. Therefore, there is no single best way to treat it; treatment should be tailored to the individual. For example, if one can maintain a good condition with relatively regular menstrual cycles and it does not affect pregnancy, then no special treatment might be necessary. However, if there is a long absence of menstrual periods, then treatment such as using birth control pills to regulate hormones may be necessary. Some people may also have concurrent conditions such as thyroid dysfunction or insulin resistance, and treatment for these conditions should be based on specific test results.

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Foods to Avoid with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Patients with polycystic ovary syndrome should avoid the following foods: First, animal offal. Second, avoid spicy and stimulating food, sweets, mung beans, crabs, persimmons, etc. Third, no smoking or drinking, and avoid high-sugar diets. Fourth, avoid snacks, such as puffed food, etc. In addition to diet, patients with polycystic ovary syndrome should also engage in aerobic exercise at least five days a week, exercise the body, and maintain a good mindset, which is conducive to the recovery of symptoms.

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How to regulate polycystic ovary syndrome?

Firstly, patients with polycystic ovary syndrome should appropriately control their diet and engage in physical exercise to reduce or control their weight and reduce their waistline. Secondly, develop good eating habits with balanced nutrition, paying attention to the control of calories and fats. Those who are obese should control their diet appropriately, eat less fatty and rich foods, and avoid overeating. Consume more vegetables, fruits, and high-quality protein. Quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption. Thirdly, women who are trying to lose weight should not blindly use weight loss drugs and should avoid excessive dieting and rapid weight loss in a short period. Fourthly, exercise regularly, such as walking, jogging, playing sports, swimming, martial arts, practicing Wuxinqi (Five-Animal Exercises), and various forms of dance. However, avoid intense exercises and maintain a balance between work and rest. Fifth, maintain emotional stability and a positive mindset. Avoid extreme anger, depression, excessive tension, and long-term anxiety. Sixth, obese women with menstrual irregularities should take note: if the menstrual cycle is significantly prolonged, or if it occurs every few months or not at all, and if acne develops on the face, they should seek medical attention promptly. Seventh, reduce stress and maintain a good psychological state. Build confidence in treatment and be patient with the treatment process. Young female patients who are not treated have a very high probability of developing Type 2 diabetes in middle and old age, which can lead to infertility. Therefore, once this disease appears, behavior modification, dietary restriction, and exercise therapy should be combined, and, under the guidance of a professional doctor, coordinated with medication therapy. Eighth, doctors, family members, and spouses should actively encourage and support the patient in losing weight, providing psychological understanding and assistance.

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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.