Polycystic ovary
Assisted Reproduction:
Polycystic ovary and assisted reproduction
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common condition affecting women of childbearing age, characterised by the presence of multiple follicles with a characteristic ultrasound arrangement in the ovaries, hormonal imbalances and alterations in the menstrual cycle. Although PCOS does not prevent pregnancy, it can make it difficult, leading many women to seek alternatives such as assisted reproduction to achieve their dream of becoming mothers.
How does PCOS affect fertility?
PCOS causes a number of problems that can affect a woman's reproductive capacity:
- Hormonal disturbances: The imbalance between oestrogen and progesterone can cause irregularities in the menstrual cycle, hindering ovulation and the proper maturation of follicles.
- Cystic polycystic ovary syndrome: diagnosed when it meets at least two of the following characteristics: multifollicular ovaries on ultrasound, clinical or analytical hyperandrogenism and alterations in menstruation. Either amenorrhoea (absence of menstruation) or oligomenorrhoea (less than 8 periods per year).
- Insulin resistance: Women with PCOS often have insulin resistance, which can further disrupt hormone balance and affect egg quality.
In which cases is it recommended to use assisted reproduction centres?
Assisted reproduction may be a viable option for women with PCOS who:
- They have difficulty conceiving naturally after one year of intercourse.
- Have irregular or anovulatory menstrual cycles.
- They wish to preserve their fertility.
What assisted reproduction techniques can be used?
The most common assisted reproductive techniques for women with PCOS include:
- Ovulation induction: Medications are used to stimulate the production of mature eggs and increase the chances of ovulation.
- Timed intercourse: The most fertile time of the menstrual cycle is determined in order to schedule intercourse and increase the chances of conception.
- Artificial insemination (AI): Capacitated sperm is introduced directly into the woman's uterus at the time of ovulation, which is usually achieved by ovarian stimulation.
- In vitro fertilisation (IVF): The woman's eggs are removed and microinjected with sperm in a laboratory. The resulting embryos are cultured and then transferred to the uterus for implantation.
What can be expected from assisted reproduction in women with PCOS?
The success rates of assisted reproduction in women with PCOS vary depending on age, the severity of the syndrome and the technique used. However, many women with PCOS achieve pregnancy through these techniques.
Recommendations for women with PCOS seeking assisted reproduction:
- Consult a specialist in assisted reproduction: A specialist will be able to assess each woman's individual situation and recommend the most appropriate technique.
- Adopt a healthy lifestyle: Maintaining a healthy weight, regular physical activity and a balanced diet can improve insulin sensitivity and egg quality.
- Managing stress: Stress can worsen PCOS symptoms and affect fertility, so it is important to implement stress management techniques.
- Be patient and positive: The process of assisted reproduction can be long and challenging, so it is important to remain patient and positive.
A message of hope
PCOS does not have to be an obstacle to achieving the dream of motherhood. With the right treatment and counselling, many women with PCOS can achieve pregnancy and start a family.
