Our Tulsa fertility doctors assist patients in getting pregnant with PCOS
Approximately 7% to 10% of women in their childbearing years are diagnosed with PCOS, or polycystic ovary syndrome. While this condition affects lifelong health, many women only feel a significant impact when they start trying to have a baby. Getting pregnant with PCOS can be challenging because PCOS can create female infertility issues. Our Tulsa fertility doctors will provide the expert medical care that you deserve, so that you can welcome a baby into your life.
A brief explanation of PCOS
PCOS is a hormone disorder characterized by irregular periods, abnormal hair growth, excessive testosterone, acne and unusual weight gain. Female infertility is another common sign of PCOS. Younger women may not experience these symptoms and may only receive a diagnosis once they start trying to conceive and find getting pregnant with PCOS to be difficult.
Although the main impact of PCOS relates to fertility, this condition can have long-term implications for your health. Women with PCOS have a greater risk of diabetes, heart disease, depression, sleep apnea and obesity. Getting an accurate picture of PCOS and receiving appropriate treatment can improve overall wellness.
How PCOS causes female infertility
Getting pregnant with PCOS can require extra effort. Irregular periods usually accompany a finding of PCOS, and are often related to irregular ovulation. To conceive naturally, the sperm fertilizes the egg, and then the resulting embryo implants in the uterus. Women with PCOS may not ovulate regularly because of the hormonal imbalances caused by this disorder.
How we diagnose PCOS
Unfortunately, our Tulsa fertility center doctors can’t confirm PCOS with just one test, so diagnosing the condition involves a few steps. We usually start with a complete medical history that includes a discussion of your reproductive health and any symptoms have you have experienced. Your doctor will also perform a physical exam to look for outward signs, blood tests to evaluate hormone levels, and an ultrasound exam that may reveal evidence of cysts on the ovaries.
Exploring treatment and getting pregnant with PCOS
Once we have a PCOS diagnosis, our Tulsa fertility doctors will develop a customized treatment plan to improve your chances for a healthy pregnancy. Maintaining a healthy BMI (body mass index) through a balanced diet and routine exercise can help regulate your system and possibly improve fertility. For women who aren’t ovulating regularly, or at all, fertility medications, with or without reproductive technology such as intrauterine insemination (IUI) or IVF, can often give the needed boost. We know that PCOS can make it harder for our patients to create or expand their families. The team at Tulsa Fertility Center will offer top-notch treatment and unwavering support as you navigate your path to parenthood. Contact our office for more information on getting pregnant with PCOS.