Women With PCOS Who Struggle To Conceive: How Is IVF Bringing Hope?

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common causes of infertility, affecting 9-18% of reproductive-age women globally. PCOS is characterized by hormonal imbalances, leading to irregular ovulation or anovulation, making conception difficult. However, in vitro fertilization (IVF) is providing new hope to women with PCOS, offering an effective pathway to motherhood.

How Is IVF Bringing Hope For Women With PCOS Struggling To Conceive?

For women with PCOS, IVF can help overcome ovulation issues and improve the chances of pregnancy. The key to a successful IVF cycle lies in a tailored approach that addresses the unique challenges posed by PCOS, such as ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) and poor oocyte quality. IVF allows for controlled ovarian stimulation, where medications are carefully chosen to enhance egg production without triggering OHSS. Research shows that antagonist cycles combined with the use of medication which affects gonadotropins and hormone triggers can reduce the risk of OHSS while maximizing egg yield​.

Insulin resistance, a common feature in PCOS, also plays a crucial role in fertility struggles. An insulin-sensitizer is often prescribed before or during IVF to help improve ovarian response and reduce the risk of OHSS. Although this impact on live birth rates is still under research, it has been shown to lower OHSS risk, making it a valuable tool in IVF protocols.

Frozen embryo transfer (FET) is another technique that benefits women with PCOS. Studies suggest that freezing all embryos and transferring them in a later, hormone-controlled cycle can improve pregnancy outcomes and reduce miscarriage rates. FET also helps to avoid complications like OHSS, which is a greater risk during fresh embryo transfers.

Although IVF presents certain challenges for women with PCOS, such as a higher risk of pregnancy complications like gestational diabetes and pre-eclampsia, the individualized treatment protocols available today have significantly improved the success rates. Tailored stimulation methods, the careful monitoring of hormone levels, and innovative techniques like FET are bringing new hope to women with PCOS who have long struggled to conceive.

In conclusion, IVF is transforming the fertility journey for women with PCOS. With the right medical strategies, including hormonal regulation, lifestyle modifications, and advanced reproductive techniques, many women are now achieving their dream of motherhood. As research continues to refine IVF protocols, the future looks even brighter for women with PCOS facing fertility challenges.

Authored by Dr Sushma B R, Sr. Consultant Fertility Specialist, Oasis Fertility