Female infertility accounts for approximately one third of couple’s experiencing difficulty in getting pregnant. Some are related to Ovulatory disorders, others can be due to Tubal damage or Endometriosis.

Polycystic Ovarian syndrome-PCO

PCO is an endocrine condition. It is suggested that it is as a result of Insulin resistance which causes an increase in androgens which in turn affect the ovaries. Some women may experience irregular or an absence of a monthly period which in turn results in irregular ovulation and difficulty in conceiving .There are varying degrees of PCO, some indicators may be:

Excessive facial hair growth
Irregularity/absence of periods
Irregular/absence of ovulation
Obesity
Infertility

PCO can be diagnosed by an ultra sound scan and/or blood tests. In a scan picture small cyst structures can be seen around the outer edge of the ovary. In blood tests performed between Day 2-day 6 a raised testosterone and LH level may indicate PCO, in addition with other indicators.

PCO Ovary

Depending on its severity some women suffering with irregular cycles due to PCO may be offered ovarian drilling as an attempt to regulate their menstrual cycles and achieve a natural pregnancy without medical intervention.

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