In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
Here at The Center for Fertility and Gynecology, our team is focused on the patient. We always strive to identify the primary cause or combination of factors that contribute to cases of infertility. By doing this, we can then create a strong treatment plan. Our patient-focused care has helped us become one of the leading fertility centers in the Los Angeles area.
In vitro fertilization (IVF) is one of the most popular and effective fertility treatments available today. Let's take a moment to consider its effectiveness when dealing with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
What Is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)?
PCOS is an endocrine system disorder that affect women who are of reproductive age. Women with PCOS have enlarged ovaries that contain small amount of fluid known as follicles. This results in changes in hormone levels, which can result in irregular periods, weight gain, acne, growth of facial or body hair, and depression.
How Common Is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)?
PCOS is relatively uncommon. Between 5 percent and 10 percent of the popular experience the condition.
However, it's been estimated that around one-third of female infertility diagnoses involves PCOS. It's the leading ovulatory disorder that affects women who are of reproductive age. Roughly 85 percent of all ovulatory disorders that cause female infertility are attributable to PCOS.
Keep in mind that just because a woman has PCOS does not necessarily mean she will experience problems conceiving or with infertility.
How In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) Works
In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a process in which eggs are fertilized in a lab setting. The egg is allowed to develop into an embryo over the course of a few days before it is transferred to the uterus using a catheter. This helps increase the chances of live birth, and it can get around various finds of female factor and male factor infertility issues.
How Effective Is IVF When PCOS Is a Factor?
IVF is rather effective as a fertility treatment option, with a success rate of 20 percent to 35 percent depending on a host of factors.
Other Treatments and Procedures to Consider
Sometimes the various symptoms associated with PCOS can be resolved through medications, hormone therapy, and changes to a woman's lifestyle. These can all go a long way toward improving general wellness and even potentially addressing infertility.
If after initiating these therapies a woman still cannot become pregnant, then IVF and other fertility treatments can be considered. This includes intrauterine insemination (IUI), which is a type of artificial insemination. The success rates of IUI are not as high as IVF, though it can still help many people start the families that they want.
Tailoring Your Fertility Treatment to Your Needs
It's important to us that all treatments be carefully tailored to the needs of the patient. During a consultation, we can discuss a combination of lifestyle and medication treatments in combination with fertility treatments. This can boost success rates and make having a child a reality. This careful assessment of wellness is part of our approach to helping patients at an individual level.
Learn More About Fertility Treatment Options
For more information about your treatment options, we encourage you to contact our team of experienced fertility specialists today. We at The Center for Fertility and Gynecology will help you start a family through the proper treatment of your infertility issue.