Can you get pregnant with ovarian cysts? The answer is yes. This is Rosy’s story, a woman over 35 with cysts that prevented her from ovulating and made her dream of becoming a mother difficult.
Rosy visited several doctors and fertility clinics that nearly took away her hope. Until an accurate diagnosis restored her confidence and, thanks to an Assisted Reproduction treatment, she now enjoys her baby Carlos.
What are ovarian cysts and how do they affect fertility?
Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that appear on or inside an ovary. They range from a few millimeters to over 3 cm. Many disappear on their own, but others—especially in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)—disrupt hormones, block ovulation, and reduce pregnancy chances.
PCOS affects 8–13% of women of reproductive age (WHO, 2020). In this syndrome, dozens of small cysts (2–9 mm) form along the ovary’s edge. The imbalance of LH, FSH, and androgens causes irregular or absent cycles and hinders ovulation.
How can you get pregnant with ovarian cysts and PCOS?
Yes, you can with a tailored diagnosis and treatment. First, the specialist will perform a pelvic ultrasound and hormone tests—FSH, LH, estradiol, and AMH—to assess your ovarian reserve and cyst nature. Sometimes a hysterosalpingography is added to check the tubes.
- Ovulation stimulation with clomiphene citrate or letrozole (50–150 mg/day for 5 days) with ultrasound monitoring.
- Metformin (500–2000 mg/day) to improve insulin resistance and resume ovulation.
- Laparoscopic ovarian drilling in resistant cases.
- In vitro fertilization (IVF) adapted for PCOS with GnRH antagonists and analogues to prevent hyperstimulation.
Assisted Reproduction treatments for ovarian cysts
When oral medications and lifestyle changes aren’t enough, Assisted Reproduction offers more options. In Rosy’s case, an IVF cycle within a multi-attempt program achieved pregnancy on the first try. Her protocol included a GnRH antagonist, gonadotropins (150–225 IU/day), and single-embryo transfer.
At Ingenes, after ovarian stimulation we retrieve oocytes under sedation, fertilize them via ICSI, and culture embryos to day 5. We transfer the highest quality blastocyst (grade 3BB or above) and cryopreserve the rest to maximize rates and reduce OHSS risks.
Rosy’s journey to motherhood
At first, Rosy was only prescribed pills to regulate her period without explaining the cause. After years of failed attempts and a miscarriage in 2013, she almost gave up. In 2018, at Ingenes, the clear PCOS diagnosis and support from a multidisciplinary team changed everything.
The support of her husband and emotional care were key. With the right IVF treatment, Rosy had Carlos Gabriel. She advises: “Don’t self-medicate; always consult an Assisted Reproduction specialist before taking any medication.”
If you ask yourself “Do I have ovarian cysts and can I still get pregnant?”, or want to read more stories like “Pregnancy with PCOS: I made it happen”, our experts will guide you step by step.
Why choose Ingenes?
The WHO notes that ovarian cysts and PCOS are common but treatable infertility causes. Visiting reproduction specialists ensures comprehensive evaluations and tailored protocols.
Our Initial Program includes ultrasound, hormone panel, semen analysis, and lifestyle counseling. We design the optimal plan—ovulation induction, IUI, or IVF—to maximize your chances. We are the leading institute in Latin America for complex cases.
FAQ
1. Can small cysts disappear on their own?
Yes. Functional cysts under 3 cm typically resolve within 6–8 weeks. Your doctor may monitor with ultrasounds every 4 weeks. If they persist beyond two cycles or exceed 5 cm, evaluation is needed.
Avoid self-medication. If you have pelvic pain, bloating, or irregular bleeding, consult a specialist to prevent torsion or rupture.
2. Do ovarian cysts always hurt?
No. Many are asymptomatic and found by chance. Symptomatic ones cause mild discomfort, pain during intercourse, or intense pain if they rupture.
If you experience fever, nausea, or severe pain, seek immediate care. An ultrasound and hormone tests will guide treatment.
3. Is pregnancy possible after ovarian drilling?
Laparoscopic drilling lowers androgen levels and restores ovulation in 2–3 months. Pregnancy rates post-procedure range from 30% to 60%. It’s reserved for cases where clomiphene or letrozole fail, as it carries risks of adhesions and reduced ovarian reserve.
4. What lifestyle changes help?
Losing 5–10% of weight in overweight women improves ovulation in PCOS. A balanced diet (whole grains, lean protein, and omega-3) and moderate exercise (150 min/week) stabilize hormones.
Reducing stress with yoga, meditation, or therapy also supports fertility. Coordinate supplements—inositol, vitamin D—with your doctor.
Sources
- World Health Organization. (2020). Infertility. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/infertility
- MedlinePlus. (2022). Ovarian cysts. https://medlineplus.gov/ovariancysts.html
- Teede H. J. et al. (2018). International evidence-based guideline for PCOS. Human Reproduction, 33(9), 1602–1618.
- National Institute for Health and Care Excellence. (2017). Fertility problems: assessment and treatment. NICE NG126.
Remember that every body is unique. Keep hope alive and always seek the support of a fertility specialist to design the best plan for you.