Episode 51: PCOS and Fertility: An IVF Baby After Ectopic Pregnancies

One of the most common questions people ask when they find out they have Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is, “Does this mean I can’t get pregnant?” PCOS is a hormonal imbalance that often presents itself with several symptoms, and yes one of those symptoms may be infertility. But, while PCOS itself isn’t curable, it is possible for women with PCOS to get pregnant.   

PCOS impacts a woman’s body’s ability to ovulate, which can lead to an irregular fertile window. These irregularities can affect your ability to get pregnant naturally, but there are several things a reproductive endocrinologist can recommend to help overcome this.   

Treatment options can be as straightforward as oral medications to induce ovulation, injectable medications, or fertility treatments like IUI and IVF. There isn’t a treatment option for all women with PCOS, and each individual needs to work with their doctor to decide the right treatment path for them.  

In today’s episode, we’ll hear from Sarah Rivera, who was diagnosed after experiencing two life–threatening ectopic pregnancies. Because of her experience, she decided that IVF was the safest way to proceed, and because she had coverage for fertility treatments provided by her employer, she was able to pursue parenthood at her own pace.   

Guest: Sarah Rivera, Progyny Member 

Host: Julie Hunt, Manager of Business Development at Progyny 

For more information, visit Progyny’s Podcast page and PCOS resources from Progyny Education.   

Be sure to follow us on Instagram, @ThisisInfertilityPodcast and use the #ThisisInfertility. 

Have a question, comment, or want to share your story? Email us at thisisinfertility@progyny.com.