Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)

The term refers to the tendency of affected women to produce many immature follicles rather than one mature follicle. The underlying problem is a condition known as 'insulin resistance'. There may be a genetic susceptibility to this condition but it is primarily caused by poor diet and since both genes and habits run in families, it is often difficult to distinguish the two. Eating too many refined (processed) or simple (chemically simple) carbohydrates is a major cause but there is also a strong relationship with fat intake and metabolism. Potato crisps and French fries may be major culprits in the cause of this problem but drinking sugar-laden drinks, including fruit juices, are also likely to be major contributors. Losing weight and balancing carbohydrate metabolism are the solutions.

Is there a lifestyle cause?

Yes. This results from a diet which is low in complex carbohydrates, high in high glycemic index foods and high in 'bad' fats. This creates a hormonal imbalance which causes abnormal ovulation. Most cases can be overcome by correcting diet and other negative lifestyle habits and increasing exercise.

For specific advice visit the ez-fertility natural fertility resources and either answer the online lifestyle evaluation or read It takes two - reproducing naturally today.

Other topics:

• Blighted ovum

• Congenital abnormality

• Ectopic pregnancies

• Endometriosis

• Genes and infertility

• Genes and miscarriage

• Lifestyle evaluation for a fertile lifestyle

• Male infertility

• Men aged 40 or older

• Miscarriage

• Monosomy

• Ovulation, Ovulation chart

• Recurrent miscarriage

• Sexual aspects of fertility

• Stress and fertility

• Triploidy

• Trisomy

• Unexplained infertility

• Women aged 35 or older

 

Adelaide, South Australia, Phone + 618 8244 7551

 Site revised and relaunched January 2010