In vitro fertilization is an expensive, complex procedure used as a last resort when all other methods of assisted conception have failed. One cycle of IVF may cost as much as $12,000. Risks include: multiple pregnancy, ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), Ectopic pregnancy (pregnancy outside the womb), and the possibility of increased risk for ovarian cancer. IFV success rates vary from clinic to clinic. The Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology (SART), representing over 85 percent of ART clinics in the U.S., provides national statistics of member clinics.
Before undergoing ART, women with PCOS may consider non-pharmaceutical methods to achieve conception. One of the underlying causes of PCOS is insulin resistance, and when this condition is reversed, natural conception may be achieved. Non-pharmaceutical methods include: a high-protein, low-carbohydrate diet, with lots of green vegetables and fruits, specific exercises to increase insulin sensitivity, nutraceuticals (minerals, vitamins, and herbs that are disease specific) to balance blood sugar, or a complete system that incorporates all of these elements.
You Tube Video of a Woman suffering from PCOS tells her story of conceiving naturally, after ART failures, using a systematic approach to reverse insulin resistance and PCOS symptoms.
References
U.S. Deptartment of Health and Human Services
2004 Assisted Reproductive Technology Success Rates
American Reproductive Medical Society
Fertility and Sterility
November 2007 | Vol. 88, No. 5
