When it comes to issues with fertility or the challenges we may go through with our health and wellbeing, we tend to keep it under wraps.
The less we talk about these sensitive, personal challenges, however, the more we’re likely to feel isolated and alone. This is part of the reason why fertility challenges and most illnesses lead to further emotional stress that takes a toll on your wellbeing.
This is definitely the case when it comes to issues that seem private and personal, such as polycystic ovary syndrome.
It is difficult to know exactly how many women struggle with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) but it is believed to be very common, affecting one in ten women of childbearing age.
One key question that is asked when someone is diagnosed with a syndrome of this kind is, can polycystic ovaries prevent pregnancy?
The short answer is no, polycystic ovaries, alone, cannot prevent pregnancy. The long answer, however, may be more complex than that.
How can polycystic ovaries prevent pregnancy?
First, it is important to understand what PCOS really is and why it can be difficult to diagnose.
This syndrome basically means that the ovaries have a high number of underdeveloped sacs in which eggs develop, also called follicles. With PCOS, the body is unable to release an egg from the sac, preventing ovulation.
PCOS can present itself in a number of ways, showcase a variety of symptoms, and lead to several effects including:
- Irregular periods
- The development of ovarian cysts
- Unexplained weight fluctuations
- High levels of androgen or male hormones that can lead to excess hair growth on the face or body
- The development of acne or oily skin
- Difficulties with fertility
Despite these symptoms, however, nearly half of those who have PCOS, won’t display any symptoms at all.
At this point, it’s easy to stop and think that that’s the end of the subject.
Our bodies are far more complicated than we believe, however, and when we take care of them, we help them heal or reverse some of the side effects an illness can cause.
Other information you need to know about PCOS
Menstrual cycles can change over time as they react to age, hormones, eating habits, stress, medication, weight, and many other factors.
The menstrual cycle will most likely showcase the first signs that you may have PCOS, which is why staying attuned to menstrual changes is essential in order to know when something is amiss.
Once a PCOS diagnosis has been made, the symptoms can be managed through regular exercise, a healthy diet, and taking the necessary medication once a doctor has been consulted.
Even after taking these steps, you may have questions about where this may lead. Some of the most common queries we receive include:
Can I get pregnant with PCOS naturally?
Is it difficult to get pregnant with PCOS?
How long does it take to get pregnant with PCOS?
The answer to these questions is that a safe and healthy pregnancy may take a while with a PCOS diagnosis but it is possible to conceive naturally in due time.
All you need is the right fertility support, guidance, and the necessary treatment.
The key to overcoming PCOS is getting a diagnosis as early as possible and understanding how your body is and how it may react in the future. Catching it early on will also help mitigate other health risks including high blood pressure and type two diabetes.
Get the right fertility support at the right time
There’s no straightforward answer to, can polycystic ovaries prevent pregnancy; a lot of it depends on the steps taken once a diagnosis has been made.
Despite this complexity, it’s natural to feel disappointed, fearful of the future, or even a little angry about being diagnosed with a syndrome that cannot be fully cured.
A PCOS diagnosis is not the end of a fertility journey, however. If you, or someone you know, is struggling with menstruation or have noticed changes in their cycle, get in touch with a gynaecologist as soon as possible.
When you take action at the right time, it’s possible to mitigate the symptoms and effects of PCOS and have a healthy pregnancy when you are ready.