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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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.

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Written by He Bing
Obstetrics and Gynecology
1min 19sec home-news-image

Management of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

For patients with polycystic ovary syndrome, the most important aspect is weight control. Patients need to engage in aerobic exercise at least 5 days a week, such as brisk walking, jogging, swimming, etc., each session lasting at least 30 minutes. Attention should also be paid to lifestyle adjustments: ensure a suitable living environment, change bad habits, and avoid staying up late; especially during long-term treatment, it is important to rest, maintain physical strength, and follow a nutritious diet. Be sure to dress appropriately with changing weather to avoid infections from bacteria, viruses, etc. Dietary adjustments involve long-term restriction of calorie intake, opting for low-sugar, high-fiber foods. A light diet with more high-quality protein is recommended. Quit smoking and drinking, and avoid high-sugar, high-fat, and spicy foods. Lastly, it’s crucial to stabilize emotions, focus on self-regulation, maintain an optimistic outlook, and avoid anger, depression, excessive tension, and long-term anxiety.

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Written by He Bing
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Foods to Avoid with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Patients with polycystic ovary syndrome should avoid the following foods: First, animal offal. Second, avoid spicy and stimulating food, sweets, mung beans, crabs, persimmons, etc. Third, no smoking or drinking, and avoid high-sugar diets. Fourth, avoid snacks, such as puffed food, etc. In addition to diet, patients with polycystic ovary syndrome should also engage in aerobic exercise at least five days a week, exercise the body, and maintain a good mindset, which is conducive to the recovery of symptoms.

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Written by Shen Li Wen
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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How to regulate amenorrhea in polycystic ovary syndrome?

When a woman with polycystic ovary syndrome experiences amenorrhea, the first step is to observe her body type. If she is relatively obese, it is advisable to suggest controlling diet and engaging in moderate activity to reduce her weight, that is, to lower her body mass index. After doing so, some women may regain their normal menstrual cycles. For those with a normal body type or those who still have irregular menstrual cycles after losing weight, considering oral contraceptives might be suitable. These can reduce the level of androgens in the body. For women of childbearing age who still have reproductive needs, after regulating the menstrual cycle, if normal ovulation is not resumed, ovulation induction treatments can be considered to help the woman conceive normally.

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Written by Shen Li Wen
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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The difference between polycystic ovary syndrome and polycystic ovaries

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and polycystic ovaries are different. Firstly, polycystic ovaries are diagnosed through ultrasound, wherein more than 12 small follicles are found in both ovaries simultaneously under ultrasound guidance. This condition can occur in some normal women as well as women who have been taking short-acting birth control pills for a long time. In subsequent check-ups, this condition might not be detected. On the other hand, polycystic ovary syndrome is a disease represented by a cluster of clinical symptoms. For instance, women may experience infrequent ovulation, longer menstrual cycles, and it can also lead to infertility. There are also manifestations of increased androgen levels, such as increased body hair and facial acne. Polycystic ovary syndrome primarily affects a woman's normal fertility functions and thus requires treatment; whereas, polycystic ovaries usually just require observation.