How Does PCOS Affect Fertility?
27 Oct 2025
What is PCOS and How Does It Affect Fertility?
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder that affects up to 10% of women of reproductive age. It causes a hormonal imbalance that can interfere with normal ovulation, making it one of the leading causes of infertility in women.
Understanding PCOS
PCOS is characterized by three main features:
Irregular or absent ovulation: Women with PCOS often do not ovulate regularly, meaning eggs are not released for fertilization, leading to irregular or missed periods.
Excess androgens (male hormones): Elevated levels of testosterone can cause symptoms like excess hair growth, acne, and scalp hair thinning.
Polycystic ovaries: Ovaries become enlarged and contain many small cysts (fluid-filled sacs), detectable by ultrasound.
The exact cause of PCOS is unclear but involves genetic and environmental factors, including insulin resistance.
How Does PCOS Impact Fertility?
Irregular or No Ovulation
Without regular ovulation, no egg is released, so pregnancy is not possible naturally. Many women with PCOS ovulate infrequently or not at all.
Hormonal Imbalance
High insulin levels can increase androgen production, worsening ovulation problems and affecting egg quality.
Other Reproductive Issues
PCOS can cause thickened uterine lining, impacting implantation, and increase risk of miscarriage.
Can You Get Pregnant with PCOS?
Yes. Many women with PCOS successfully conceive naturally or with treatment. However, PCOS is the cause of infertility for many women because of ovulation problems.
How Can Iswarya Fertility Centre Help?
Lifestyle Changes
Losing even a small amount of weight (5-10%) can restore ovulation in many women by improving insulin sensitivity and hormone balance.
Medication
Clomiphene citrate: Commonly prescribed to stimulate ovulation.
Letrozole: An alternative ovulation induction drug.
Metformin: Used in insulin-resistant patients to improve menstrual cycles.
Assisted Reproductive Techniques
IUI (Intrauterine insemination) may be used to improve sperm delivery to the egg.
IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) is effective for those who do not conceive with other treatments.
Monitoring and Support
Regular monitoring by fertility experts ensures the best timing for ovulation and pregnancy efforts.
Take Control of Your Fertility with Iswarya Fertility Centre
If you have PCOS and are struggling to conceive, expert help is available. Early evaluation and treatment improve your chances of a healthy pregnancy.
Book a consultation today with Iswarya Fertility Centre and take confident steps toward parenthood.