Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) Might Be Preventing You from Conceiving

You probably already know the health risks associated with obesity: type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, coronary artery disease (CAD), high blood pressure and cancer. But many women aren’t aware that carrying too much weight can be a major contributor to fertility complications, including a hormone disorder called polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS).

Women with PCOS produce too much insulin, or the insulin they produce doesn’t work the way it should. The inability of insulin to function normally is one reason why women with PCOS tend to gain weight or have a hard time losing weight. For others, PCOS develops later on, following substantial weight gain.

Obese women (BMI of 30 or higher) have a greater risk of PCOS, which can cause:

• Decrease or failure to ovulate

• Irregular menstrual cycles

• Painful periods

• Polycystic ovaries

• Acne

• Excessive body hair growth

Our bariatric patient, Jessica Lynn, shares her PCOS journey

I recently received this wonderful message from a PCOS sufferer, and eventual bariatric patient, on my Facebook timeline:

"Hi Dr. Seun,

This little angel is my son Finn. Before my weight loss surgery, I lost three pregnancies. I remember you telling me about other women's pregnancy success stories after dealing with PCOS, like me. If it were not for the healthy lifestyle you helped me achieve with weight loss surgery, my miracle baby would not be here. Thanks for all you do to inspire and help your patients achieve their goals and dreams.

P.S. I was 60 pounds lighter on delivery day then I was on surgery day!”

Studies have shown that as little as a 10 percent weight reduction can be effective in improving ovulation and menses. Doing so can help reduce the level of androgens in your body and may even help reduce your symptoms and make infertility treatment more effective.

Get Your Weight in Check Before You Get Pregnant

But if you have a BMI that is over 40, or your BMI is over 35 and you have a weight-related medical condition, a surgical weight loss solution might be a faster and more effective weight loss option than trying to lose weight through traditional diet and exercise.

We offer a comprehensive Bariatric Wellness Program to help you change your negative eating patterns, lose weight safely and finally achieve your life goals.

To learn more, call our office in Freehold at (732) 982-2002 to schedule an appointment to discuss your personal weight loss challenges and goals.