Can You Get Pregnant with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome? the Risks

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and Pregnancy?

Your girlfriend has been diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and usually takes oral contraceptives.
Her last menstrual periods were on March 20, April 15, April 21, and April 26.
She was expected to have her period on April 20, but as of May 4, it has not arrived.
She took a pregnancy test on May 1, which showed a negative result, and on May 2, she visited a clinic where the doctor performed an ultrasound and confirmed that she is not pregnant.
The doctor prescribed medication to induce her period, but she is now experiencing dizziness, chest tightness, nausea, and abdominal pain.
Is there still a possibility of pregnancy?

Hi, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/05/04

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

My girlfriend has been diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and usually takes oral contraceptives.
Her last menstrual periods were on March 20, April 15, and she had sexual intercourse on April 21 and April 26.
Normally, her period should have started around April 20, but it hasn't arrived by May 4.
On May 1, she purchased a pregnancy test, which showed a single line.
On May 2, she visited a clinic where the doctor performed an ultrasound and confirmed that she is not pregnant.
The doctor prescribed medication to induce menstruation, but she is now experiencing dizziness, chest tightness, nausea, and abdominal pain.
Is there still a possibility of pregnancy? Answer: It is unlikely.

Reply Date: 2017/05/04

More Info

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder that affects women of reproductive age and can significantly impact fertility. Women with PCOS often experience irregular menstrual cycles, which can make it challenging to predict ovulation and conceive. However, it is important to note that many women with PCOS can and do become pregnant, although they may face some additional risks and challenges.

In your case, your girlfriend has been diagnosed with PCOS and has been taking birth control pills. The irregularity in her menstrual cycle, as indicated by the dates you provided, is typical for someone with PCOS. The fact that she has not had her period by the expected date can be attributed to her condition, especially since she has been on hormonal contraceptives, which can affect the regularity of her cycle.

The symptoms she is experiencing—dizziness, chest tightness, nausea, and abdominal pain—could be side effects of the medication prescribed to induce menstruation. It is essential for her to communicate these symptoms to her healthcare provider, as they can help determine whether these are normal side effects or if further evaluation is needed.

Regarding the possibility of pregnancy, since the ultrasound indicated that there was no pregnancy detected, it is unlikely that she is pregnant at this time. However, it is important to understand that the timing of ovulation can be unpredictable in women with PCOS. If she had unprotected intercourse around the time she was expected to ovulate, there is a chance of pregnancy, but given the ultrasound results, it seems that this is not the case.

To assess the risk of pregnancy with PCOS, several factors should be considered:
1. Ovulation: Women with PCOS often have irregular ovulation or may not ovulate at all. This can make it difficult to conceive naturally. Tracking ovulation through methods such as ovulation predictor kits or monitoring basal body temperature can be helpful.

2. Hormonal Balance: PCOS is characterized by an imbalance of hormones, including elevated levels of androgens (male hormones). This hormonal imbalance can affect ovulation and overall reproductive health.

3. Weight Management: Many women with PCOS are overweight or obese, which can further complicate fertility. Weight loss, even a small amount, can help restore ovulation and improve the chances of conception.

4. Medical Interventions: For women with PCOS who are trying to conceive, medications such as Clomiphene Citrate or Metformin may be prescribed to help induce ovulation. In some cases, assisted reproductive technologies may be considered.

5. Regular Monitoring: Regular check-ups with a healthcare provider specializing in reproductive health can help manage PCOS symptoms and monitor fertility.

In summary, while PCOS can pose challenges to conception, many women with the condition can successfully become pregnant with the right management and support. If your girlfriend is considering trying to conceive in the future, it would be beneficial for her to work closely with her healthcare provider to develop a tailored plan that addresses her specific needs and concerns related to PCOS.

Similar Q&A

Can You Get Pregnant with PCOS While on Birth Control?

Hello, Dr. Huang. I have polycystic ovary syndrome and have been taking oral contraceptives for over two months. Last week, my boyfriend ejaculated during my fertile window. Is there a chance I could be pregnant?

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
If you have polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and have been taking oral contraceptives for over two months, it is unlikely that you will become pregnant, even if your boyfriend ejaculated during your fertile window.

Understanding Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: Impact on Fertility and Menstrual Irregularities

I asked my girlfriend in detail today, and she told me that she was previously diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Doctor, will this affect her fertility? Does this condition cause irregular menstrual cycles?

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
My girlfriend just told me that she has been diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Doctor, will this affect her fertility? Answer: Yes, it can affect fertility. Does this also lead to irregular menstruation? Answer: Yes, it can cause irregular menstruation.

Can I Still Get Pregnant with PCOS and Irregular Periods?

I have polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and my menstrual cycle is very irregular. Recently, my period finally arrived, but it only lasted for one day for two consecutive months. I have also been diagnosed with infertility, as my sperm viability is only 40%. We often engage in un...

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, the general definition of infertility is the inability to conceive after one year of regular sexual intercourse. In cases of infertility, both partners should undergo examinations at a gynecology clinic, including semen analysis, hysterosalpingography, ovulation testing, a...

Can You Get Pregnant with PCOS After Safe Period Intercourse?

Hello doctor, my girlfriend has polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). We had sexual intercourse on the second day after her period ended, during what is considered a safe period. I only penetrated for about 7-10 thrusts before withdrawing and finishing manually, without ejaculation i...

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
My girlfriend has polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Our sexual activity occurred on the second day after her period ended, during the safe period. I only penetrated for about 7-10 thrusts before withdrawing to finish manually, and there was no ejaculation inside, but there were s...