Is the chance of getting pregnant with polycystic ovary syndrome high?

Written by Liu Wei Jie
Obstetrics
Updated on February 10, 2025
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Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) manifests as absent or irregular menstrual periods, and is also associated with obesity, hirsutism, insulin metabolism disorders, as well as elevated blood sugar and cholesterol levels. The mechanism behind the development of PCOS is unclear but may be related to genetic factors, diet, and lack of exercise. Due to the irregular menstrual cycles, which stem from anovulation (lack of ovulation), the likelihood of pregnancy decreases. It is challenging to calculate the specific probability of pregnancy, but overall, the chances of becoming pregnant with PCOS are very low, although there is still a possibility. Treatment for PCOS generally starts with lifestyle changes, such as avoiding staying up late and refraining from eating sweets. Weight management is also crucial; weight gain is recommended for those who are underweight, whereas weight loss is advised for those who are overweight, along with appropriate exercise.

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Written by He Bing
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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How long does it take to cure polycystic ovary syndrome?

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), like hypertension and diabetes, is a chronic disease that can be managed but not cured. The clinical manifestations of PCOS are diverse and vary from person to person. Some people have mild symptoms, such as slightly irregular menstruation without complete anovulation, which still allows for the possibility of natural conception. Additionally, if an individual pays close attention to adjusting their lifestyle and maintains a lean physique, the long-term health impact can be relatively minor. This situation cannot be described as self-healing or cured, but the impact of the disease is indeed not significant. Although PCOS cannot currently be completely cured, timely diagnosis and treatment of symptoms, along with consistent long-term management, can still make pregnancy and childbirth possible.

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Written by Du Rui Xia
Obstetrics
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Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Pregnancy Probability

When suffering from polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), patients have a lower chance of becoming pregnant, mainly due to the impact of PCOS on female fertility. This often causes ovulation disorders, resulting in rare ovulation or anovulation. Without normal ovulation, pregnancy cannot occur normally. When diagnosed with PCOS, it is recommended that patients undergo ovulation induction therapy. Obese women should promote bodily recovery by losing weight, and generally, women can conceive after their normal ovulation is restored through treatment.

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Written by Zhang Xiu Rong
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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What foods are good to eat for polycystic ovary syndrome?

Patients with polycystic ovary syndrome must pay attention to their diet, as the characteristics of this disease include amenorrhea, obesity, infertility, acne, and hirsutism. Due to obesity, one should avoid eating large portions of meat and food that is high in fat and calories. Additionally, patients should check their fasting blood glucose and insulin levels, as the majority of these patients tend to have high blood sugar and insulin resistance. At this time, foods high in starch should be avoided. Dietarily, it is generally advisable to eat more green vegetables, fruits, and beans or bean products. Bean products contain estrogens which can counteract the high testosterone levels in polycystic ovary syndrome. Therefore, dietary attention is crucial. Besides focusing on diet, patients should also lose weight and reduce body weight through exercise, which helps in the recovery from the disease.

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Written by Zhang Xiu Rong
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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How to diagnose polycystic ovary syndrome?

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is a type of gynecological endocrine disorder. Clinically, it generally presents with symptoms such as menstrual irregularities, amenorrhea, obesity, infertility, acne, and hirsutism. If these symptoms appear, it is essential to visit a hospital for an ultrasound examination. The diagnosis of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome can be made if more than 12 follicles are observed on a single sectional view of the ovaries during the ultrasound. In such cases, it is also necessary to have a blood test at the hospital to analyze six key sex hormones, including the ratio of luteinizing hormone to follicle-stimulating hormone, and the levels of testosterone. If the blood test shows high levels of luteinizing hormone and testosterone, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome can also be considered. A diagnosis of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome can generally be confirmed through a combination of ultrasound and sex hormone tests, followed by targeted treatment based on the test results.

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Written by He Bing
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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What should be noted about polycystic ovary syndrome?

First, patients with polycystic ovary syndrome should control their diet and exercise appropriately to reduce or control weight and decrease waist circumference. Second, develop good eating habits, maintain nutritional balance, and pay attention to the control of calories and fat. Obese individuals should moderate their diet, eat less greasy and rich foods, and avoid overeating. Consume more vegetables, fruits, and high-quality proteins. Quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption. Third, women who are losing weight should not blindly use weight loss medications and avoid excessive dieting and rapid weight loss over a short period. Fourth, exercise regularly, such as walking, jogging, playing ball sports, swimming, martial arts, the Five Animal Frolics, and various forms of dance. However, avoid intense exercise and pay attention to balancing work and rest. Fifth, maintain emotional stability and a positive mindset. Avoid rage, depression, excessive tension, and long-term anxiety. Sixth, obese women with menstrual irregularities should note: significantly prolonged menstrual cycles, or having a period every few months or not at all, and the development of acne on the face should seek medical advice early. Seventh, reduce stress and maintain a good psychological state. Establish confidence in treatment and be patient with therapy. Young female patients who are untreated have a high probability of developing Type 2 diabetes in middle and old age and can become infertile. Therefore, once this disease appears, behavioral, dietary, and exercise therapies should be combined with medical treatment under the guidance of a professional doctor. Eighth, doctors, family members, and spouses should actively encourage and support the patient to lose weight, offering emotional understanding and help.