Another leading cause of female factor infertility is Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome - PCOS, also called Stein-Leventhal Syndrome. Polycystic ovarian syndrome is a common disorder that affects one in every ten women of reproductive age. The disorder is one of the leading causes of fertility problems in women, and most women who have it do not even realize that they have the condition. What Is Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome - PCOS? Polycystic ovarian syndrome is a hormonal imbalance disorder in which the ovaries have multiple small cysts. Women with PCOS produce high amounts of male hormones called androgens. An increased level of androgen is known to cause interference in egg maturation preventing regular ovulation. Although polycystic ovarian syndrome was first identified more than seven decades ago, the cause of the condition is not yet known. Some scientists believe that the cause may come from increased insulin production in the body, which signals the release of excess male hormones. Other scientists believe the PCOS simply runs in the family. Whatever the case, polycystic ovarian syndrome is a major infertility factor. In fact, PCOS is one of the most common causes of female factor infertility in the nation.

Causes of Infertility Ovulation Dysfunction Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) Endometriosis Structural Causes Recurrent Miscarriage Secondary Infertility Unexplained Infertility Male Infertility

Symptoms of PCOS

• obesity
  
• high cholesterol
  
• high blood pressure
  
• type 2 diabetes
  
• acne
  
• hirsutism
  
• irregular menses
  
• no menses at all

Treatments for PCOS
There currently is no cure for polycystic ovarian syndrome; however, several treatments are offered at our Plano practice to help treat and manage the condition, such as ovulation induction with clomid or letrozole pills or using stronger injectable medications. If simpler ovulation methods are unsuccessful then in-vitro fertilization may be an option. Also medications such as birth control pills can be used to lower the male hormones and help regulate the menstrual cycle. Other medications like Metformin® or glucophage can be used to regulate the production of insulin. High insulin level increase the production of male hormones from the ovary and make the p.c.o.s. worse. We will discuss special diets and exersize to help lower the insulin levels and this can be used along with metformin. These treatments help to stimulate ovulation, reduce weight, regulate hormones, and all of these will increase ones fertility.

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