Does PCOD Affect Fertility?

By Dr. Shilpi Khare – Gynecologist, Obstetrician & Infertility Specialist, Lucknow

www.drshilpikhare.com

Understanding PCOD

PCOD (Polycystic Ovarian Disease) is one of the most common hormonal disorders affecting women of reproductive age. It occurs when the ovaries produce an excess amount of androgens (male hormones), leading to irregular menstrual cycles, cyst formation on the ovaries, and hormonal imbalance.

While PCOD is not a rare condition, it is often misunderstood — especially when it comes to fertility. The good news is that having PCOD doesn’t mean you can’t get pregnant — but it can make conception more challenging without proper care and treatment.

🩺 How Does PCOD Affect Fertility?

PCOD impacts fertility primarily through irregular ovulation. Let’s understand how:

1. Irregular or Absent Ovulation (Anovulation)

Women with PCOD may not release an egg every month. Without regular ovulation, the chances of natural conception decrease.

2. Hormonal Imbalance

High levels of insulin and androgens (male hormones) interfere with egg development and release.

3. Poor Egg Quality

In some cases, hormonal fluctuations may affect the maturity and quality of eggs, making conception difficult.

4. Endometrial Changes

Irregular cycles can lead to an imbalance in the uterine lining, affecting embryo implantation.

🌿 Can Women with PCOD Get Pregnant Naturally?

Yes, many women with PCOD can conceive naturally with lifestyle changes and timely medical guidance. 🌸

Here’s what helps:

* Balanced diet rich in fiber, protein, and antioxidants.

* Regular exercise to improve insulin sensitivity.

* Stress management through yoga, meditation, or relaxation.

* Timely medical consultation to track ovulation and hormonal levels.

Even mild weight reduction (5–10%) can improve ovulation and fertility outcomes.

💊 When Is Fertility Treatment Needed?

If lifestyle changes and natural attempts don’t work, several treatment options can help:

1. Ovulation Induction

Medications like letrozole stimulate ovulation in women with PCOD.

2. Monitoring and Timed Intercourse

Follicular monitoring helps identify the right time for conception.

3. IUI (Intrauterine Insemination)

Recommended if ovulation occurs but conception doesn’t happen after several cycles.

4. IVF (In Vitro Fertilization)

For women with severe PCOD or additional fertility factors, IVF can be a highly effective option. It allows direct fertilization of eggs in a lab, increasing pregnancy success rates.

💬 Dr. Shilpi Khare’s Advice

“PCOD is a manageable condition. With the right diagnosis, lifestyle changes, and medical guidance, many women go on to have healthy pregnancies. The key is to seek help early and understand your body’s unique hormonal pattern.” – Dr. Shilpi Khare

At www.drshilpikhare.com, we offer personalized care for PCOD, fertility assessment, and advanced reproductive treatments like IUI and IVF, designed to support every woman’s path to parenthood.