Polycystic  Ovary Syndrome or PCOS makes a woman’s testosterone and estrogen hormonal level become imbalance often resulting to  menstrual irregularities and fertility problems.

The Infertility rate with PCOS is very high. PCOS is responsible for 25%-30% of infertility in women. Women who experience this health condition usually conceive successfully, but may have to undergo treatments to improve her chances of having a successful pregnancy.

In addition, they might also have greater risk of miscarriage. Miscarriage among women who has PCOS can be as high as 30%-50%, however studies conducted stated that the rates might be higher.

While this might pose as a disadvantage to couples wanting to start a family, there are alternatives to increase a woman’s chances of getting pregnant.

According to Dr. Zedrix Gallito, OB-Gynecologist at ManilaMed, the chances of a patient diagnosed with PCOS getting pregnant depends on the status of her hormones and her overall health condition.

OVULATION INDUCTION

A method called “Ovulation induction” involves giving medications that will help ovulation, increasing the chance of getting pregnant by up to 6% if performed with scheduled intercourse between the couple.

INTRAUTERINE INSEMINATION

This process involves injecting the sperm inside a woman’s uterus for fertilization to take place. It has an averagesuccess rate of 15%. Usually, this fertility treatment method is used due to low sperm count or decreased sperm  motility. However, this method is not recommended for women who have severe diseases of the fallopian tubes, women with moderate to severe endometriosis, or if the male partner has severe sperm abnormalities.

IN VITRO FERTILIZATION

Commonly known as “test tube baby” gives up to 60% chance of getting pregnant. It is done by extracting a sperm sample and manually combining it with the egg cell in the laboratory dish. This method is never done as a first resort except if there’s total tubal blockage. It is done after other methods haven’t worked. The success of this method depends on various factors such as, age, length of infertility, and weight.  On the average, around half of the couples who get pregnant will actually deliver a baby.

There is no absolute treatment in this health condition. However, living a healthy lifestyle can lower your risks to infertility, miscarriages, heart diseases, diabetes, and uterine cancer. Aside from having a healthy lifestyle, you can also take medicines prescribed by your doctor. Also, do not forget your regular checkups.

Having PCOS does not mean you can’t become pregnant. There are other options available and can be discussed with you at ManilaMed’s Center for Women’s Health. Contact (02) 523 8131 loc 3100-3101 or visit their website manilamed.com.ph for more details.