When you’re trying to start a family and face challenges month after month, it’s natural to wonder, “Is something wrong with me? Why does it seem easier for others?” You are not alone—approximately 10% of individuals with female anatomy in the United States experience difficulties with conception.
Infertility can stem from various causes, ranging from simple timing issues to more complex medical conditions. One common condition is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS).
Understanding PCOS
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal imbalance affecting 6 to 12 percent of individuals with ovaries in the U.S.
Signs and Symptoms of PCOS
- Irregular Menstrual Cycles: PCOS often manifests as irregular, infrequent, or prolonged menstrual periods. If your cycle exceeds 35 days, you have fewer than nine periods a year, or your periods are very heavy and last more than a week, you may experience irregular cycles.
- Elevated Androgens: Individuals with PCOS may have higher levels of androgens, which can result in increased facial and body hair, thinning hair on the scalp, and acne breakouts.
- Ovarian Cysts: The term “cysts” in PCOS refers to small fluid-filled pockets in the ovaries, rather than actual cysts.
Symptoms may be more pronounced if you are significantly above your normal weight.
PCOS and Infertility
According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), 70 to 80 percent of those with PCOS encounter infertility issues. Although not everyone with PCOS struggles to conceive, irregular ovulation is a common barrier for those who do.
Can You Get Pregnant with PCOS Naturally?
Yes! While PCOS can complicate conception, it doesn’t render it impossible. The first step is to determine if you are ovulating. If you are ovulating regularly, you can attempt to conceive naturally. If not, it’s essential to regulate your ovulation first. There are many self-directed strategies to improve your health and alleviate PCOS symptoms that may help restore your ovulation.
Tips for Conceiving with PCOS
Making adjustments to your diet, lifestyle, and physical activity can sometimes help regulate ovulation and enhance your overall chances of conception, even if you may eventually require medications or fertility treatments.
- Track Your Cycles: Monitoring your menstrual cycles is crucial in determining regularity. A typical cycle lasts 28 days, plus or minus seven days. If your cycle deviates from this range, you may have an irregular cycle.
- Confirm Ovulation: To conceive, it’s vital to time intercourse with ovulation. You can chart your basal body temperature or use an ovulation prediction kit to confirm ovulation.
- Aim for a Healthy BMI: A Body Mass Index (BMI) of 20-25 is considered optimal for fertility. If your BMI is over 30, losing just 5-10% of your body weight may significantly improve pregnancy rates. Conversely, a BMI below 18 can also lead to irregular ovulation. You can use a BMI calculator to monitor your progress.
- Enhance Your Diet: Achieving a healthy BMI often involves dietary changes. Focus on a long-term healthy eating plan rather than a temporary diet aimed solely at conception. Prioritize a variety of vegetables and fruits, hormone-free proteins, wild-caught fish, legumes, and whole grains. For additional insights on the impact of nutrition on ovulation, visit this resource on ovulation and hormones.
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water is essential. Health experts recommend consuming between half to two-thirds of your body weight in ounces of water daily. Staying hydrated can also help with hunger levels and improve skin health.
- Limit Sugar Intake: High blood sugar levels can harm egg quality and lead to inflammation, which is particularly pertinent for those with PCOS. Avoid foods high in added sugars, especially sugary beverages.
- Exercise Regularly: Aim to engage in at least 30 minutes of physical activity each day. Whether it’s dancing, walking your dog, or attending fitness classes, find activities that you enjoy to keep you motivated.
As you implement these lifestyle changes, keep track of any positive shifts in your PCOS symptoms. If these adjustments fail to regulate your ovulation, there are medications available that your healthcare provider can prescribe to help manage your hormone levels.
Early Pregnancy Symptoms with PCOS
Due to the prevalence of irregular periods among those with PCOS, distinguishing between a missed period from pregnancy or PCOS can be challenging. If you’re unsure about your ovulation timing, knowing when to take a pregnancy test can also be tricky.
In addition to a missed period, early pregnancy symptoms can include fatigue, nausea, and frequent urination—symptoms that may also coincide with increased water intake. Other signs may mirror those of an impending period, such as breast tenderness and mood swings. For further guidance on home insemination, check out this blog post.
If you suspect you might be pregnant and have doubts about a home test result, a blood test from your healthcare provider can provide confirmation. Since pregnancies resulting from PCOS can carry increased risks, it’s advisable to work with your OB/GYN to create a plan to address any potential complications early on.
Conclusion
No matter what path you choose, support is available to you. Remember, you’re not alone on this journey. For additional resources, consider joining MakeAmom’s free sperm donor matching group or exploring MakeAmom’s home insemination options, which offer a reusable option.
To summarize: While PCOS can present challenges for conception, understanding your condition and making lifestyle adjustments can improve your chances of pregnancy. Tracking your cycles, confirming ovulation, maintaining a healthy weight, and adopting a nutritious diet are all vital steps. If needed, there are medical interventions available to support your journey to motherhood.