PCOS Isn’t a Dead End

If you are a woman suffering from Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) you know it can be a frustrating and sometimes painful disorder to live with.  It is also the leading cause of infertility in women.

September is PCOS Awareness Month, and we want to not only raise awareness about this disorder that affects so many of our CCRM patients, but to spread the message that when it comes to starting a family, PCOS isn’t a dead end; it just requires a different path. In fact, fertility treatments are very successful at helping women with PCOS get pregnant.

PCOS is one of the most common hormonal endocrine disorders in women and involves irregular function of the ovaries. Roughly seven million women in the U.S. (around 10% of women of childbearing age) suffer from it.

One of the most devastating effects of PCOS is its impact on fertility. Usually women with PCOS have low levels of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and high levels of androgens (male hormones), which can impact ovulation and make it difficult to conceive. Women with PCOS also have higher rates of miscarriage, gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and premature delivery.

While it can be more challenging to have a successful pregnancy for patients with PCOS, CCRM doctors have helped countless women with PCOS start families of their own.

Taryn Sikes, before and after hormone therapy

After struggling for years with weight issues, acne, excess hair on her face, and an inability to get pregnant, Taryn Sikes and her husband, Jonathan, visited Dr. Lisa Hasty at Atlanta Center for Reproductive Medicine, a CCRM Network Clinic. As soon as she walked in the door, Dr. Hasty diagnosed her with PCOS, something no other physician had done. Dr. Hasty immediately put Taryn on a medical plan and healthy diet. Soon Taryn not only looked and felt better, but she and her husband now have two daughters.

As Taryn’s story illustrates, medication, diet, and other lifestyle changes can make successful pregnancies possible for women with PCOS. While we know that a diagnosis of PCOS can be devastating, we encourage couples struggling with the disorder and infertility to explore all options before giving up on their desire to have a family. Our doctors care deeply about our patients and will be right there with you in the fight, doing absolutely everything they can to help you have the children you’ve always wanted.

For some women who suffer with polycystic ovarian syndrome, carrying their own child may not be possible, but many of our patients find that with the right diet, medication, and other lifestyle changes suggested by our doctors, they can have the family they’ve dreamed of.

If you are interested in learning how you can grow your family, please contact us today.