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 Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and Infertility

Infertility - not being able to get pregnant - affects millions of American men and women. In women, infertility is most often explained by problems with ovulation, the process where the ovaries release eggs to be fertilized. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome makes a woman's ovaries become larger than normal and have fluid-filled sacs or cysts, which can make it more difficult to become pregnant or cause infertility. In addition to infertility, PCOS can cause irregular or no periods and pelvic pain. Women with PCOS can be more at risk for diabetes and miscarriage. There are many treatments for PCOS, along with options for getting pregnant. It is important to talk with your health care provider if you have concerns about PCOS and infertility.

PCOS and infertility can affect a woman's body image. Not being able to get pregnant can be very frustrating and can change how a woman views herself. Symptoms of PCOS, such as weight gain, excess hair growth (particularly on the face), thinning hair, and acne, can be upsetting and affect a woman's confidence. Losing a pregnancy can cause feelings of loss and guilt. Coping with PCOS can be stressful and women can experience depression and mood swings. Taking care of yourself, reducing stress, and getting support from family and friends is important. The National Women's Health Information Center has provided the following organizations and publications to help women learn more about PCOS and infertility and how to maintain a positive body image.

Publications

1.   Frequently Asked Questions - Infertility
   This publication contains information on infertility, including its causes, tests to determine infertility, treatments, an explanation of in vitro fertilization, as well as other forms of assisted reproductive technology.

2.   Frequently Asked Questions - Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
   This fact sheet contains information on polycystic ovary syndrome, what it is, causes, symptoms, how it is diagnosed, affects on fertility and pregnancy, and treatment options.

3.   Overcoming Infertility
   This article discusses how to overcome infertility. It clarifies some of the associated myths and gives practical advice to couples trying to overcome infertility.

4. Acne (Copyright © AAD)
   This brochure contains information about acne, how it forms, and discusses treatment methods.

5. Endocrinology and Hirsutism (Copyright © ES)
   This fact sheet for patients explains the condition known as Hirsutism (excessive hair growth). It provides information on who should see a doctor, availability of treatment, the role of endocrinology in treating Hirsutism.

6. Excess Hair (Copyright © AAFP)
   This fact sheet explains the causes and possible treatments for excess hair, otherwise known as Hirsutism.

7. PCOS Frequently Asked Questions (Copyright © INCIID)
   This publication offers detailed answers about PCOS on symptoms, diagnosis, long term health concerns, the insulin connection and how to treat it, treating infertility due to PCOS, increased miscarriage rate with PCOS, pregnancy with PCOS, treating PCOS when not tying to conceive, weight, diet and exercise considerations, cosmetic and emotional concerns, and the future of PCOS research and treatment.

8. Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) (Copyright © CARS)
   This publication explains Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) with regards to making a diagnosis, menstrual disturbance, related hair and skin problems, obesity, laboratory testing, ultrasound procedures, and therapy for PCOS.

Organizations

1.   Division of Reproductive Health, NCCDPHP, CDC

2. American Academy of Dermatology

3. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) Resource Center

4. American Society for Reproductive Medicine

5. Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome Association, Inc.

6. Resolve

= Federal government resources

Text on this page last updated: September 2001

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