A PCOS Guide to Symptoms, Causes, and Infertility Treatments

Understanding Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and its implications on fertility is crucial for women who are navigating these challenges. In this post, we’ll delve into the symptoms, underlying causes, and effective management strategies and treatments for PCOS-related infertility.

 

What is PCOS & How Does It Affect Fertility?

PCOS is a common hormonal disorder among women of reproductive age. It’s characterized by a combination of symptoms affecting a woman’s ovaries and ovulation. The symptoms of PCOS may vary; however, three key features define this condition:

Irregular Menstrual Cycles

This may be infrequent or prolonged menstrual periods or a lack of periods altogether.

Difficulty Getting Pregnant

PCOS is one of the leading causes of infertility. Due to irregular ovulation or lack of ovulation (anovulation), the chances of an egg being available for fertilization each month are reduced, so conceiving can be difficult.

Excess Androgen Levels

Elevated levels of male hormones or androgen may result in physical signs such as excess facial and body hair (hirsutism), oily skin or severe acne, and thinning on the scalp.

Polycystic Ovaries

These hormonal imbalances can lead to enlarged ovaries containing numerous small, fluid-filled sacs (follicles) surrounding the eggs, further affecting ovulation and egg quality.

Insulin Resistance

Many women with PCOS have insulin resistance, which often leads to weight gain and obesity. This can further affect fertility by increasing hormonal imbalances and the risk of complications like type 2 diabetes.
These symptoms are not only physically taxing but can also lead to emotional distress. Understanding these symptoms is vital, as is seeking the appropriate infertility treatment in Thailand.

Causes of PCOS

While the exact cause of PCOS is not yet fully understood, several factors may play a role, such as having a genetic predisposition or a family history of PCOS, which increases the risk. Elevated male hormones or androgen can disrupt the normal functioning of the ovaries, while insulin resistance contributes to increased androgen production.

Coping with PCOS

Making certain lifestyle adjustments can significantly help in managing PCOS symptoms. Addressing infertility issues due to PCOS requires a multifaceted approach that includes lifestyle changes and medical treatments.

Dietary Changes

Making dietary changes to a balanced diet that’s low in processed foods and high in whole foods can regulate blood sugar levels and reduce the impact of insulin resistance.

Physical Activity

Regular exercise can help manage weight, regulate insulin levels, improve ovulation, and reduce PCOS symptoms.

Stress Management

Stress can exacerbate PCOS symptoms, so incorporating stress-reduction techniques like yoga, meditation, or therapy can be beneficial.

Medications

Drugs like Clomiphene (Clomid) are often used to induce ovulation and help regulate the menstrual cycle for women experiencing irregular ovulation patterns due to PCOS.

Assisted Reproduction

For those who don’t respond to medication alone, assisted reproductive technologies like Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) and In Vitro fertilization (IVF), which are among the available infertility treatments in Thailand, can be effective.

Specialist Care at Vejthani Hospital’s VFC Center

At Vejthani Hospital’s VFC Center, we understand the intricacies of PCOS and its impact on fertility. We specialize in addressing the unique challenges posed by PCOS with effective infertility treatments. Our approach is holistic and patient-centered, and includes:

Comprehensive Diagnosis

Our diagnostic process includes thorough medical evaluations, hormonal assessments, and ultrasound imaging. Understanding the extent and nature of PCOS is key to developing an effective treatment plan.

Personalized Treatment Plans

We recognize that every woman’s experience with PCOS is unique. Our treatment plans are tailored to individual needs, focusing on both managing symptoms and addressing infertility. These may include strategies like lifestyle changes to address dietary and exercise needs, medication to regulate menstrual cycles and stimulate ovulation, and assisted reproductive technologies when necessary.

Supportive Care

We provide continuous support and counseling to help manage the stress and emotional aspects of dealing with PCOS and fertility struggles.

Candidates for PCOS Infertility Treatment at VFC Center

Women who benefit most from our treatments are those who struggle with irregular menstrual cycles due to PCOS and those who have been unsuccessful in conceiving naturally due to PCOS-related ovulatory issues.

Why Choose VFC Center for PCOS Infertility Treatment?

Choosing Vejthani Hospital’s VFC Center for your PCOS infertility treatment means entrusting your care to a team that values your health and fertility goals.

Our medical team of specialists has deep knowledge and experience in managing PCOS-related fertility issues. We offer the latest treatments and state-of-the-art reproductive technology, including advanced PCOS infertility treatment options. PCOS can be a complex and challenging condition, but with our patient-centered approach, managing its symptoms and improving fertility is possible. Many women with PCOS can successfully conceive and have healthy pregnancies.

At Vejthani Hospital’s VFC Center, we’re dedicated to helping you navigate these challenges by offering expert care and comprehensive support. Learn to manage the symptoms of PCOS and get the right infertility treatments with the specialists at VFC Center. Contact us for an appointment today.

Article by Dr. Worawat Siripoon