What are the most common weight-related reasons for infertility?
The two most common problems are excess estrogen and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Along with both of these is a greater chance of a luteal phase defect (LPD). Estrogen: Fat cells produce estrogen (estrone – E1). The problem is that if you get too much estrogen your body reacts as if it is on birth control. Ovulation may not occur or it may be inadequate. An inadequate ovulation contributes to LPD, mentioned below. PCOS: This is a endocrine disorder with any combination of several symptoms. These symptoms include irregular cycles, cysts in the ovaries, ovulatory pain, anovulation, acne, excess body hair (face, chest, below navel, toes), heavy and painful periods, as well as a high LH-FSH ratio (>3:1). Diagnosis involves both a physical exam, usually including an ultrasound to check ovaries, and blood work. Recommended blood tests will be addressed later in this document. See web sites, especially the PCOS FAQ and medical journal abstracts for more information. LPD: The luteal phase
