6 Reasons You Could Struggle To Get Pregnant With PCOS & What You Can Do About It

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), infertility in women was ranked as the 5th highest and most serious global disability.

Further to that, the Infertility Awareness Association of South Africa (IFAASA) confirmed that as many as one in six couples are impacted by infertility.

Infertility occurs in both men and women with a number of risk factors such as occupational and environmental risks, age, smoking and alcohol use. Another common risk factor though for infertility in women is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS).

Here’s what you need to know about PCOS and pregnancy.

What Is PCOS?

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, or PCOS, is a hormonal disorder that involves reproductive, cosmetic and metabolic problems with 8 – 13% of women suffering from this condition. Due to ovarian dysfunction, it is the most common cause of infertility.

Despite the increasing numbers and people impacted by infertility, the subject of infertility is still not a topic openly disussed and carries with it an unfortunate stigma. 

That’s where Salome comes in. Salome’s ongoing awareness campaigns are linked to breaking the silence around common women’s health issues.

READ MORE: The Best Way To Lose Weight When You Have PCOS

Symptoms OF PCOS You Should Look Out For:

A supporter of Salome, specialist obstetrician and gynaecologist, Dr Lusanda Shimange-Matsose, shared these six symptoms commonly associated with PCOS that women should be aware of. 

1. If you are under 35 and have been having regular unprotected intercourse for 6 – 12 months without falling pregnant
2. Experiencing painful periods
3. Having irregular or prolonged menstrual cycles
4. Elevated levels of the male hormone androgen which results in excess body hair 
5. Acne
6. Overweight

What You Should Do If You Have Symptoms:

The symptoms associated with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome can cause a lot of distress and the disorder affects women in so many different ways and to different degrees. That’s why it’s best not to assume that you actually have PCOS until you’ve been diagnosed by a gynaecologist. 

What Are The Long-Term Effects Of PCOS?

“It’s about time we start talking about this so more women are aware that this is a disease that is prevalent and present,” says Dr. Shimange-Matsose.

“The most important thing for me when it comes to PCOS is making women aware of the long-term effects of this condition because if you don’t get a handle on it, not only are you going to battle with infertility – you are going to develop diabetes, cardiac problems linked to hypertension and high cholesterol, as well as sleeping problems.”

“That’s why I applaud Salome’s efforts to educate women about PCOS so they can identify and manage their symptoms from early on. The most important thing is to commit to making gynae visits a way of life in order to get help sooner rather than later,” says Dr. Shimange-Matsose.

READ MORE: How To Boost Your Fitness By Tailoring Your Exercise Routine To Your Menstrual Cycle

PCOS And Pregnancy: What Can You Do?

Just as there are various factors that impact fertility, there are also many different treatment options and recommendations out there, some more invasive than others.

According to 3Sixty Biomedicine’s CEO, Boitumelo Sebambo, in cases where infertility can be linked back to the hormonal imbalances caused by PCOS, patients who make use of products like Salome Fertility that contain Myo-inositol and D-Chiro-inositol, have seen an increase in their ovulation, a reduction in their hyperandrogenism and in the oxidative stress in their follicular fluid.

“We locally manufacture our Salome Fertility product – as well as other products within the Salome range. All Salome products are based on herbal extracts which have limited side effects AND are recognized by certain medical aids,” explains 3Sixty Biomedicine CEO, Boitumelo Sebambo.

The full range of Salome products are available online at 3Sixtybiomedicine.co.za, on Takealot.com or at most pharmacies nationwide.

Win With Salome!

Sometimes we all need support from our friends, and Salome is just that! They are your gal pal who will help you through whatever you’re facing. Their naturally-based products help women through a range of common conditions so that they have the freedom to truly live their best lives.

Salome’s products help manage menstrual pain, heavy menstrual bleeding, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and even infertility linked to PCOS. And you have chance to win one of two hampers valued at up to R2 400.

The hamper includes:

1. 1 x Custom Salome Lou Harvey tog bag
2. 1 x Custom Salome Lou Harvey cosmetic bag
3. 1 x Salome Polycos OR 1 x Salome PreMens OR 1 x Salome Menstrual Pain

How do you enter?

It’s so easy!

1. Make sure that you are following us on Instagram @womenshealthmagsa and @salomerange
2. Then fill in your details and sign up to our newsletter here or below.
3. To be eligible for the prize, you must be over 18 and a South African resident, and follow all the steps above.
4. The winner will be randomly selected and notified.

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 *In Partnership With Salome