Trying To Conceive With PCOS
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a condition that can make conceiving naturally difficult for some women. The condition creates a hormonal imbalance and creates an excess of androgens or male hormones. While weight gain and excess hair growth are common side effects, the most common symptom is an irregular or missed period. Known as dysmenorrhea and amenorrhea, respectively, both scenarios make tracking ovulation very difficult. Without knowing when an egg is released from the ovaries, trying to conceive can feel like an impossible task. Yet, assisted reproductive therapies (ART) like intrauterine insemination (IUI) and in vitro fertilization (IVF) can open up a world of possibilities.
Defining IVF
IVF is probably the most well-known ART solution and often featured in the media. The process usually includes a woman taking hormonal fertility drugs to boost egg production. Once ovulation is detected, multiple eggs may be retrieved and mixed with semen from either a partner or donor in a laboratory. If fertilization occurs, the embryo can be transferred to the uterus. Ideally, implantation will occur shortly after, and ideally, the pregnancy is carried to term.
An alternative ART
IUI is another form of ART fertility treatment but is slightly different from IVF. The most obvious difference is that IUI is typically less invasive because hormonal ovulation stimulation is not usually required, and eggs are not harvested. However, with IUI, the scenario may be tweaked in PCOS individuals. Often, ovulation induction may be required to accurately track a woman’s menstrual cycle and pinpoint when a viable egg is available. Once detected, a partner or donor’s sperm is inserted into the uterus to encourage fertilization.
PCOS, IUI and IVF
With PCOS, the determining factor for selecting IUI, IVF, or even IVF with donor eggs or a surrogate is going to depend on accurate ovulation tracking and egg quality. If ovulation tracking proves difficult or three unsuccessful IUI cycles have passed, IVF may be recommended. Assuming other underlying issues such as health and age are not at play, a fertility patient with PCOS has a 70% chance of successfully conceiving and a 60% chance of achieving a live birth with IVF. Alternatively, choosing to use donor eggs or a surrogate to carry the embryo to term is an option.
Understand the risks
While IVF and IUI are some of the most successful solutions to circumvent PCOS and start a family, the procedures are not without risks. The most common concern is ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) as a result of the hormone stimulation medications. However, other common complications can include gestational hypertension as well as a higher likelihood of experiencing other pregnancy-related health concerns.
Make an informed choice
Ovulation tracking and ovarian health concerns are the two biggest factors that will influence whether a woman with PCOS is encouraged to try IUI over IVF. Poor egg quality or irregular periods will dictate whether one treatment is attempted before shifting to the alternative. Ultimately, both IUI and IVF can be strong solutions for individuals with PCOS who want to start a family. To better understand the differences and what to expect, consider scheduling a consultation with a fertility specialist.
