The cause of PCOS is a bit complicated but it boils down to one simple thing: multiple hormone imbalances. The hormones that are said to be on the list are estrogen, progesterone, androgen, insulin, LH, adrenal hormones, thyroid hormones and others. These webs of hormones work together and complement each other to make ovulation possible. Any deviation in their normal levels can seriously jeopardize the woman’s ability to get pregnant.
How can we treat PCOS and correct it in relation with infertility? The first obvious reason is to take drugs that can help assist in the ovulation process since this is where PCOS hinders possible fertilization. One such drug is Clomiphene citrate which can increase the chances of pregnancy up to 30%. But this drug (like many out there) can have side effects such as dizziness, depression and bowel problems. This drug is not effective when used for more than six menstrual cycles. It is also important to take note that prolonged use (12 cycles and more) can cause ovarian cancer.
Metformin is a drug that can be used together with Clomiphene citrate. This drug sensitizes the body from insulin, thus regulating it to levels that can facilitate pregnancy. High insulin levels can slim your chance of getting pregnant. There are many drugs like prolactin inhibition drugs (Parlodel, Permax), FSH or follicle stimulating hormone, human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) and others that can help in “troubleshooting” the hormone imbalance that is consistent with PCOS.
PCOS can be diagnosed by blood testing that can show doctors hormonal levels in a woman’s body. Even in the midst of treatment through drugs, it is fairly difficult for specialists to ascertain your chances of getting pregnant. PCOS and infertility may be closely associated but in a broader perspective, there are just too many variables to pregnancy and infertility.
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