PCOS affects women at any age. Primarily being a lifestyle-induced disorder, Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome or PCOS affects a woman’s ovarian cycle, affecting fertility and chances of getting pregnant. Whether you’re planning a pregnancy or simply want to maintain your reproductive health, PCOS can lead to hiccups in the journey. In this piece, we’ll understand how PCOS affects a woman’s fertility and how it can be managed.
Why do women get PCOS?
PCOS is defined by hormonal imbalances in a woman’s reproductive system, mainly affecting oestrogen and testosterone levels in the body.
These hormones regulate a lot of things, from menstruation to sex drive and most importantly, ovulation. Ovulation occurs when oestrogen levels surge in the 14th-15th day of a woman’s cycle. Due to these imbalances caused by PCOS, ovulation is delayed which can affect fertility.
Multiple factors can contribute to PCOS, but the most common reasons are lifestyle and insulin resistance. The body’s insulin sensitivity goes down which leads to slow metabolism and higher testosterone production.
Heredity and diet too play a big role here.
How PCOS affects fertility?
In a typical menstrual cycle, follicles in the ovaries grow and release an egg; however, in women with PCOS, this process is disrupted. Follicles may not mature or release eggs due to increased testosterone production. This leads to multiple immature follicles in the ovaries, causing cysts.
Even when ovulation does occur, hormonal imbalances may prevent the uterine lining from developing properly, which causes issues with implantation and successful pregnancy.
Improving Fertility with PCOS
Weight Management
Exercise and daily activity are very important in boosting energy levels, metabolism and in turn, hormonal balance. Strength training, cardio and yoga can improve oestrogen levels and promote visceral fat-burning mechanisms in the body.
Stress Management
Managing stress can boost fertility, as long-term stress increases oestrogen imbalance which could lead to delayed ovulation. You can practice maintaining work-life balance, spending time with loved ones, and prioritising your sleep.
PCOS Supplements
Apart from diet and lifestyle changes, taking a Myo-Inositol supplement can really improve your hormonal levels and reduce fat storage. Research-backed supplements can boost metabolism, balance oestrogen levels and in turn, boost fertility for women with PCOS.
Healthy Diet
The key for PCOS management is eating a well-balanced diet that doesn’t lead to regular sugar spikes. This can lead to lower insulin levels and lesser testosterone production. Having whole grains, nuts, seeds can improve your metabolism, energy and overall health.
CONCLUSION
PCOS can be a challenging condition, especially when it comes to fertility. However, understanding its effects on your reproductive health is the first step toward managing it effectively. With a combination of medical treatments and lifestyle adjustments, many women with PCOS can successfully conceive.
Remember, every woman's journey is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. It's essential to consult with healthcare professionals to understand your body’s needs and navigate accordingly.