Infertility in Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

This book presents up-to-date knowledge on infertility in the context of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and provides clear evidence-based guidance on its treatment. The book opens by discussing anovulation, oocyte quality, and the endometrium in women with PCOS, infertility and subfertility cofactors, and the impact of PCOS phenotypes on fertility. All aspects of management are then thoroughly addressed. The available medical treatments for PCOS-related infertility – including antiestrogens, aromatase inhibitors, insulin-sensitizing drugs, and gonadotropins – are reviewed, and other potential therapeutic approaches, such as acupuncture and laparoscopic ovarian drilling, are assessed. Careful attention is also devoted to the role of lifestyle interventions. The use of controlled ovarian stimulation in infertile PCOS patients undergoing intrauterine insemination or in vitro fertilization is examined in detail, as are the benefits of in vitro maturation of oocytes. This book will be of value to all who are involved in the care of women with PCOS and related infertility issues.

Stefano Palomba is a Full Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology who works in the Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit of the Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Pediatrics, Azienda Ospedaliera ASMN, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico of Reggio Emilia, Italy. Dr. Palomba is responsible for training and research in the department and undertakes research in the fields of Gynecologic Endocrinology and Minimally Invasive Gynecology. He has published about 250 scientific articles in leading international journals and is Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Ovarian Research and Associate Editor of Human Reproduction and also acts as a reviewer for several other international scientific journals.