Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder among women of reproductive age. It is a condition that affects 1 in 10 women worldwide and can cause infertility issues. PCOS usually occurs when the ovaries produce higher than normal levels of androgens (male hormones), causing an irregular menstrual cycle and often making it difficult for women to conceive. When facing fertility issues, it is crucial to visit a PCOS fertility specialist who can help diagnose the condition and recommend the right treatment.
Do’s and Don’ts:
To manage and improve your chances of getting pregnant with PCOS, it is essential to monitor your diet, lifestyle, and avoid any habits that may aggravate your condition. Here are some do’s and don’ts to make it easier for you:
Dos:
– Do consume natural foods with a low glycemic index as studies find this food group can help improve insulin resistance in women with PCOS. This includes fresh fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains such as quinoa, brown rice, and oats.
– Do manage your weight as obesity can increase insulin resistance, hormonal imbalances, and make it harder to conceive.
– Do consider fertility supplements such as inositol and n-acetylcysteine (NAC) as they both have been scientifically linked to improved fertility in women with PCOS.
– Do exercise regularly as studies suggest physical activity can help lower insulin resistance and inflammation, making it easier to ovulate.
Don’ts:
– Don’t eat foods high in sugar and processed carbs, such as cakes, pastries, pasta, etc. These foods can cause spikes in insulin that can make it harder to conceive.
– Don’t smoke tobacco, use recreational drugs, or consume alcohol excessively. These habits can damage your reproductive system and lower your chances of getting pregnant.
– Don’t stress yourself out! Stress and anxiety can increase insulin levels and hormonal imbalances, making it harder for you to conceive.
Foods and Vegetables to Eat:
Eating a balanced diet is crucial in managing PCOS and improving your fertility. Here are some superfoods that can help with this condition:
– Spinach: Rich in calcium and vital nutrients such as iron and vitamins B6 and C, spinach is a great vegetable to help with PCOS management.
– Avocado: High in healthy fats but low in carbs, avocado can help manage insulin resistance while making you feel full.
– Broccoli: Contains powerful antioxidants such as sulforaphane, which has been scientifically linked to improved insulin resistance and ovulation in women with PCOS.
– Berries: Blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, and blackberries all contain high levels of phytochemicals that can help fight inflammation and reduce insulin resistance.
– Chickpeas: High in fiber and protein, chickpeas, can help you feel full for more extended periods while managing insulin levels.
Lifestyle and Habits:
Adopting a healthy lifestyle can help increase your chances of getting pregnant with PCOS. Here are some tips to help you live a healthier life:
– Relax and destress: Take up activities that help you unwind, such as yoga, meditation, or walking in nature.
– Get enough sleep: Aim for a minimum of 7-8 hours of sleep daily to help reduce stress and calm your mind for optimal fertility.
– Drink enough water: Aim to drink at least 8-10 glasses of water daily to help flush toxins out of your body and keep you hydrated.
– Reduce your exposure to pollutants: Try and minimize your exposure to toxins and chemicals that may be harmful to your fertility, including pesticides or cleaning agents.
– Join a support group: Joining a support group can help you feel less alone in your journey while getting the support you need from other women experiencing the same fertility struggle.
IVF, IUI, ICSI, and Surrogacy:
Assisted reproductive technologies such as In vitro fertilization (IVF), Intrauterine insemination (IUI), and Intra-cytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) are common treatments recommended by PCOS fertility specialists to help women conceive.
Before prescribing any treatment, your fertility specialist will take your medical history, carry out diagnostic tests, and discuss the various options available. IVF, IUI, and ICSI treatments involve gathering eggs from the ovaries and fertilizing them in a lab before implanting them back into the uterus.
Surrogacy may be recommended when the woman’s body isn’t able to handle pregnancy due to various medical conditions.
In conclusion, managing PCOS is no easy feat, but with the right diet, lifestyle, habits, and treatment, women can conceive and give birth to healthy babies. It is essential to make an appointment with a PCOS fertility specialist to diagnose and treat your condition effectively. Complying with your doctor’s orders and adopting lifestyle changes that support your journey to motherhood will improve your chances of having a healthy baby.