How does PCOS/PMOS influence fertility and pregnancy?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am 24 and have been struggling with really painful cramps and extremely heavy bleeding for the past year. My periods last almost 10 days now instead of the usual 5-6. I was recently diagnosed with PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) or PMOS (polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome) after multiple tests. I am worried about whether this will affect my ability to have children in the future. My mom had similar issues and took years to conceive.

Should I start thinking about fertility treatments now, even though I am not ready to have kids yet? What can I do to preserve my fertility while managing these horrible symptoms?

Kindly help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

Currently, we adhere to the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) classification for uterine bleeding.

Frequency:

Absent (no menstruation or bleeding, referred to as amenorrhea).
Frequent is defined as occurring less than every 24 days.
Normal is classified as occurring between 24 and 38 days.
Infrequent is characterized by bleeding that occurs more than every 38 days.

Duration:

Prolonged duration is defined as lasting more than eight days.
Normal duration is considered to be up to eight days.

Regularity:

Regular is defined as when the interval from shortest to longest is less than nine days.
Irregular is defined as when the interval from shortest to longest exceeds 10 days.

Flow volume:

Heavy.
Normal.
Light.

According to this FIGO classification, there is heavy menstrual bleeding.

I will advise you to do the following investigations:

Serum FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone) & LH (Luteinizing hormone).
Serum prolactin.
Serum thyroid function test.
Ultrasound pelvic.

You should focus on a healthy diet and exercise for weight loss. You can take the following medicines:

Tablet Metformin (anti-diabetic medicine for insulin resistance) 500 mg, twice daily for six months.
Tablet Norethisterone (a progestin medication) 5 mg; three times daily for three months.

Following this, you can control your PCOS/PMOS symptoms. If it remains under control, it will not affect your pregnancy.

I hope this information helps you.

Feel free to ask further queries.

Thank you.