How Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Affects Fertility " Rebecca a 33-year-old woman who has difficulty achieving a pregnancy "

How Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Affects Fertility " Rebecca a 33-year-old woman who has difficulty achieving a pregnancy "

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  Mr. Jackson Sayers BSc., Kinesiologist, Vancouver, BC 20 June 2023

  When a woman has a history of irregular periods and exhibits symptoms of excess testosterone such as hair growth, acne, or hair loss, it is essential to see a physician and undergo evaluation. Getting blood tests to assess hormone levels is important, not only for male hormone levels but also for other hormones that could potentially be contributing to the symptoms. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is primarily diagnosed based on symptoms and by excluding other possible causes. It is considered a diagnosis of exclusion. While an ultrasound may be performed to assess for polycystic ovaries, it is important to note that the presence of cysts on the ovaries is not exclusive to PCOS. Approximately 20% of women without PCOS can also have cysts on ultrasound. Due to the increased risk of other hormonal and metabolic abnormalities associated with PCOS, it is important to undergo additional evaluations. This may include checking for diabetes, monitoring blood pressure, evaluating cholesterol levels, and assessing for conditions like sleep apnea. These assessments can often be done through routine blood tests. For diabetes, a 75-gram glucose tolerance test may be recommended, where the individual drinks a sugary solution, and their blood sugar levels are measured before and after the drink. Sleep studies can be conducted to evaluate for sleep apnea. It is crucial to discuss these concerns with a physician and have the necessary tests done to ensure proper evaluation and management of symptoms related to PCOS. Please note that the information provided is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.

  Reply to: How Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Affects Fertility " Rebecca a 33-year-old woman who has difficulty achieving a pregnancy "

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  T.Brown 10 September 2015

  I would think a naturopath would have some helpful suggestions for dealing with fertility and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome.

  Reply to: How Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Affects Fertility " Rebecca a 33-year-old woman who has difficulty achieving a pregnancy "

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    K. Michael 14 December 2015

    I have a friend that has Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and is undergoing fertility treatments. She is seeing a naturopath as part of the program. They are working with vitamins and acupuncture

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    Michelle Kaarto, BScK, CSEP CEP 13 November 2015

    Has anyone been to a naturopath with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome? I'm curious as to whether they would suggest mainly dietary modifications or if there are supplements that are recommended in this case.

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    K. Michael 09 November 2015

    Many women with PCOS also experience weight gain. A naturopath would be able to help with a holistic approach to dealing with polycystic ovary syndrome

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  T.Brown 10 September 2015

  What kinds of recommendations might a pharmacist have for a woman with PCOS - Polycystic Ovary Syndrome?

  Reply to: How Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Affects Fertility " Rebecca a 33-year-old woman who has difficulty achieving a pregnancy "

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    Michelle Kaarto, BScK, CSEP CEP 13 November 2015

    I know that pharmacists can also consider any medications you are taking to determine if there are any contraindications. I would imagine if there is anything that could influence the treatment of your Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, that a pharmacist would be able to counsel you on.

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    K. Michael 07 October 2015

    I would imagine that there would be vitamins and supplements that would assist with the symptoms of PCOS.

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  K. Michael 02 September 2015

  I know several friends who have found acupuncture helpful in dealing with the symptoms of the PCOS - Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

  Reply to: How Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Affects Fertility " Rebecca a 33-year-old woman who has difficulty achieving a pregnancy "

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  ShirleyG 03 February 2015

  How common is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome ? Is there anything that can be done to prevent it ?

  Reply to: How Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Affects Fertility " Rebecca a 33-year-old woman who has difficulty achieving a pregnancy "

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    K. Michael 09 July 2015

    PCOS - Polycystic Ovary Syndrome - diagnoses seem to be on the rise. Is that because we are more informed ? Or some other reason ?

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    ShirleyG 23 March 2015

    What kind of therapy is usually done ?

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    Bernadette van der Boom-Bebb 04 February 2015

    Early intervention with the appropriate therapy can diminish the effects of PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) but the cause is not very well known. There may be a hereditary component, but given that it is not well understood, prevention would be difficult.

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  K. Michael 06 December 2014

  What type of drug is clomiphene ? And what is it supposed to do ?

  Reply to: How Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Affects Fertility " Rebecca a 33-year-old woman who has difficulty achieving a pregnancy "

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    K. Michael 12 August 2015

    If a woman with PCOS doesn't ovulate, how would she know when to take the clomiphene ?

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    Yuan Lew, MSc MBA 10 December 2014

    Clomiphene is fairly inexpensive orally-available drug taken once a day for 5 days in the beginning of a woman's cycle, usually starting day 3 or day 5. It induces ovulation and is usually used as a first treatment to treat infertility. For women who do ovulate on their own, it can be beneficial to induce a better quality ovulation. The risk of multiple pregnancy is low with clomiphene use.

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  stravers82 03 December 2014

  Metformin and diet/lifestyle changes can greatly improve the effects of PCOS. Minor fertility treatments are usually quite successful.

  Reply to: How Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Affects Fertility " Rebecca a 33-year-old woman who has difficulty achieving a pregnancy "

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    Yuan Lew, MSc MBA 10 December 2014

    Yes, metformin has been used with ovulation induction drugs like clomiphene to help stimulate better ovulation and better pregnancy outcome. I had infertility PCOS. Diet changes, metformin and clomiphene helped me get pregnant.

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  K. Michael 03 December 2014

  It is very difficult for a woman with PCOS to get pregnant without fertility treatments

  Reply to: How Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Affects Fertility " Rebecca a 33-year-old woman who has difficulty achieving a pregnancy "