Getting pregnant with PCOS: A guide to conceiving naturally
By: Kaveesh Mommy
Tags: Motherhood, Mothers, New Mom, Pregnancy, Baby

I have PCOS and I want to have a baby, what do I need to know?

Getting pregnant with PCOS: Here are a few tips you should know

PCOS is a lifestyle problem that affects 1 in 7 women, according to gynecologists and infertility specialists.

A problem that’s typically associated with irregular or scanty periods, Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) can have a huge impact on fertility, ovulation and hormonal functioning. It remains to be one of the leading causes of infertility and many struggle conceiving because of their unpleasant diagnosis. What’s rather scarier is bleak awareness. Many women only learn of the problem when they face trouble getting pregnant naturally, and have to seek additional help.

Even though PCOS can make it difficult for ovulation to happen, the big question remains, can a woman conceive with PCOD or PCOS? Is natural conception possible?

If you have been diagnosed with PCOS and have been facing trouble conceiving, here is a handy guide which could answer your questions.

How does PCOS impact your fertility?

PCOS is a condition which causes excess production of male hormones (androgens) in the body, which can pose problems.

While women with PCOS can conceive, they face more problems than other women. One of the prime reasons being, irregular menstruation, which reduces the chances of ovulation.

Another factor which can trigger problems is obesity. Since women with PCOS tend to be put on weight, excess weight can make it difficult for a woman to conceive.

Apart from this, women with PCOS are also at a higher risk for problems like

Type 2 and gestational diabetes

What can women with PCOS do to boost their chances of conception?

Even though a little difficult, women with PCOS actually go on to have the same number of children as other women. However, the journey to getting pregnant can be a little lengthier, or often requires assistance.

That being said, there are ways women struggling with PCOS can boost their chances of getting pregnant, naturally.

Managing weight gain: Weight loss is one of the ways to increase chances of conception. Since extra weight can lead to inflammation and induce stress on the body, managing your weight and BMI (Body Mass Index) can regularize menstruation and help you have a baby.

Is natural conception possible?

PCOS is one of the most common contributing factors responsible for infertility. However, natural conception is possible. Making changes to your diet and lifestyle are some of the simplest ways to boost your odds. Women with PCOS who have a healthy weight are more likely to get pregnant than those who aren’t. If you control your lifestyle problems, getting pregnant won’t be a struggle for long. Expert guidance can help you make the right decisions and get your health on the right track.

Do fertility drugs and treatments help?

Women with PCOS are often put on drugs. Medical studies have shown that 80% of women with PCOS who are treated with various fertility assisting drugs and treatments conceive within six to twelve-period cycles. However, age and pre-existing health complications can have a role to play here.

The type of drugs you are being put on can help manage the root problem which is making it difficult for you to conceive. For example, metformin, a common medicine used to treat PCOS regulates blood sugar and hormonal functioning. Birth control pills and patches can help regularize conception. They may also reduce the chances of miscarriages for high-risk women.

When is the right time to seek help?

Like any medical problem, the earliest intervention makes way for timely help and treatment. Having a baby with PCOS is tricky, but not impossible. A little help from a guiding doctor, making lifestyle changes and controlling weight can go a long way in promoting fertility and good health.

Frequent intercourse, managing stress levels and last of all, being optimistic will help you conceive and have a baby of your own.

Consider seeking help if you face conceiving naturally six months after trying naturally. If you get very few periods in a year or have heavy bleeding, or are over 30, consulting a doctor can prevent problems.