Questionhello
I am 27 years & have POLYCYSTIC OVARIES, which is diagnosed after pelvic U/S by my doctor.
I have a question about getting pregnant & Concerned about my chances of getting pregnant, Can cysts affect my chance of Pregnancy, Are they dangerous, Could I be pregnant & also Complications during Pregnancy.
I wonder if you can help me, I would be grateful if you could tell me if this is normal and suggest what I should do? I need your advice.
AnswerHello Saima from Pakistan,
The terms "polycystic" in PCO is a misnomer. That means that it is not a correct name. The name was given to this disorder in the past because that is all they knew about it and opening the ovaries after they were removed showed lots of little "cysts". In fact, these are NOT cysts. These are follicles. Some patients with PCO have an abundance or increased number of follicles present as can be seen on ultrasound. It is unfortunately that we still use this name "polycystic ovarian disease", but it's because the new name hyperandrogenic ovarian dysfunction, is too long to say. So in answer to your questions, these are NOT cysts and therefore are not something to worry about.
The basic problem with PCOD is that the ovaries are not functioning correctly and therefore ovulation does not occur, which leads to further hormonal problems. I would recommend that you look at my blog where I have written extensively regarding this disorder and it's treatment.
Good Luck,
Edward J. Ramirez, M.D., FACOG
Executive Medical Director
The Fertility and Gynecology Center
Monterey Bay IVF Program
www.montereybayivf.com
Monterey, California, U.S.A.
for additional information check out my blog at http://womenshealthandfertility.blogspot.com check me out on twitter with me at @montereybayivf and facebook @montereybayivf
