Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder affecting 1 in 10 women during their reproductive years. It can affect their fertility and overall health. The exact cause of PCOS is not entirely understood but could be due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. For women with PCOS, deciding the best age and time to start a family can be complex.
Understanding PCOS and fertility
PCOS affects the ovaries. It causes them to develop small cysts and disrupts the regular release of eggs. This hormonal imbalance can lead to irregular periods, reduced fertility and an increased risk of complications during pregnancy. Many women who have PCOS may wonder what the best age to get pregnant with PCOS can be. Considering their biological clock and the challenge posed by this condition can influence this timing.
Fertility challenges that PCOS can cause in women
PCOS can cause a variety of challenges in women who suffer from this condition including:
- Irregular menstrual cycles — PCOS can cause irregular or absent menstrual cycles. Irregular or absent periods can make it difficult to predict ovulation. Ovulation is crucial for conception, and timing can help improve chances.
- Anovulation — Women with PCOS can experience anovulation. This means they do not release eggs regularly. Without regularity, it can cause further complications in the journey to conceive.
- Insulin resistance — PCOS is often associated with insulin resistance. Insulin resistance, a condition that can affect the body’s ability to regulate its blood sugar levels, can affect fertility.
- Increased miscarriage risk — Women with PCOS can have a higher risk of miscarriage. This increased risk emphasizes the need for careful planning and having medical support during pregnancy.
The impact of age on fertility
When it comes to the best age to get pregnant with PCOS, there isn’t a specific answer. It can vary based on each individual’s circumstances. However, age is a critical factor in fertility for all women. This factor is critical in women with and without PCOS. It can present challenges including:
- Declining egg quality — As women age, the quality of their eggs declines. This decline can potentially lead to difficulties in achieving and maintaining a healthy pregnancy.
- Increased risk of complications — Advanced maternal age can be associated with a higher risk of pregnancy complications. These complications can include gestational diabetes, high blood pressure and preterm birth.
- Decreased egg count — As women age, the quantity of their viable eggs decreases. This is further complicated by PCOS as this condition can further impact the number of viable eggs available for fertilization.
When considering the best age to get pregnant with PCOS, many health care professionals suggest that a woman’s early 20s to early 40s may be the best time to start trying to conceive if they are ready for a family. A woman’s fertility is generally higher during this period. It is important to note that this time frame isn’t always feasible for everyone due to a variety of reasons, which may include:
- Personal factors — Every woman’s body and situation is unique. Some women with PCOS may have a regular menstrual cycle and may not face as many significant challenges. Others may require medical interventions regardless of their age. Women with PCOS should consult with a health care provider, even a fertility specialist, to help assess their fertility status and determine their best options.
- Lifestyle and health factors — Besides age and PCOS, other lifestyle factors can play a role in fertility. These factors can include maintaining a healthy weight or managing insulin resistance. Women are encouraged to have a healthy lifestyle that includes regular exercise, a balanced diet and stress management techniques. These can help boost their reproductive health.
- Emotional readiness — Starting a family is a big and life-changing decision. Emotional readiness, stability in relationships, and support systems are important considerations when planning on having a child.
Treatment options that can help boost PCOS fertility
Some women with PCOS have minimal symptoms that influence their fertility and can get pregnant with minimal issues. However, in other women, PCOS can lead to the need for medical interventions to help achieve a healthy pregnancy including:
- Medications — Hormonal medications, like clomiphene citrate, can help stimulate ovulation in women with PCOS. These medications are used under medical supervision.
- In vitro fertilization (IVF) — IVF is an assisted reproductive technology that can be used for women with PCOS. IVF is a process where an egg is fertilized with sperm outside of the body, and then the embryo is implanted into the uterus. IVF can bypass the ovulation challenges that can accompany PCOS.
- Ovulation induction — This process uses medications like gonadotropins to help stimulate the ovaries to induce ovulation. It can be used in conjunction with timed intercourse or intrauterine insemination (IUI) procedures.
- Ovarian drilling — Ovarian drilling is a surgical procedure that can help reduce androgen levels and can restore regular ovulation.
PCOS can present unique challenges to fertility, and there isn’t a perfect age to get pregnant with this condition. However, you can successfully become pregnant with the right support, planning and potential medical interventions. Regardless of your age, it can be possible to navigate the journey to motherhood successfully.
Every woman’s journey to motherhood is unique, and Fertility Cloud can help you with yours
Fertility Cloud understands the unique challenges PCOS can create on your path to motherhood. We can help provide you with essential information about getting pregnant with PCOS and support you with any medical assistance you may need. Our team has a wealth of knowledge and the right tools to help you achieve your dream of growing your family.
Contact our team by phone today for more information or book an initial appointment online with a fertility specialist.