PCOS, obesity, and infertility, and addressing lifestyle factors can be beneficial in managing these conditions and improving fertility outcomes
Dr Garima Sawhney, Senior Gynaecologist and co-founder, Pristyn Care shares how PCOS and obesity can affect infertility
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), obesity, and infertility are interconnected conditions and can often influence each other. PCOS is a common hormonal disorder that affects particularly women. It is characterized by an imbalance in sex hormones, specifically elevated levels of male hormones along with insulin resistance.
Insulin resistance is a key factor in both PCOS and obesity. It occurs when the body’s cells become less responsive to insulin, which is a hormone that helps in regulating blood sugar levels. As insulin resistance worsens, the body produces more insulin to compensate. Insulin resistance in PCOS stimulates the ovaries to produce more androgens. This can disrupt the normal menstrual cycle and lead to the formation of ovarian cysts.
The hormonal imbalances associated with PCOS, particularly elevated androgen levels, can disrupt ovulation which is a common cause of infertility in individuals with PCOS.
Obesity can further contribute to infertility by affecting menstrual regularity and ovulation. Excess body fat, especially abdominal fat, can promote insulin resistance and disrupt hormonal balance, making it difficult for regular menstrual cycles to occur.
Both PCOS and obesity are associated with chronic low-grade inflammation that can affect reproductive tissues and interfere with fertility. Metabolic dysfunction can also impact ovarian function and contribute to infertility. Apart from these, lifestyle factors such as diet and physical activity play a crucial role in managing both PCOS and obesity. Hence, adopting a healthy lifestyle, including weight management, regular exercise, and a balanced diet, can help improve insulin sensitivity and regulate hormonal imbalances, potentially improving fertility outcomes.
It’s also important to understand that not everyone with PCOS is obese, and not everyone who is obese has PCOS. However, there is a well-established association between these three; PCOS, obesity, and infertility, and addressing lifestyle factors can be beneficial in managing these conditions and improving fertility outcomes.