What are complications of fertility conditions?

• Addison's disease: Individuals with POF have a higher incidence of developing Addison's disease. Addison's disease occurs when the small hormone producing gland located above the kidneys (adrenal glands) does not produce adequate amounts of hormones that regulate bodily functions.

• Depression: Infertility may cause women to become depressed. Individuals may seek help from support groups to discuss their feelings.

• Dyslipidemia: Women with PCOS have a higher risk of developing high cholesterol. This includes increased triglycerides, high LDL (bad) cholesterol, and decreased HDL (good) cholesterol.

• Endometrial cancer: Women with PCOS have an increased risk of developing endometrial cancer. Irregular menstrual periods and the absence of ovulation cause women to produce the hormone estrogen, but not the hormone progesterone. Progesterone causes the endometrium to shed its lining each month as a menstrual period. The endometrium becomes thick without progesterone, which can cause heavy or irregular bleeding. Over time, this may lead to cancer.

• Impaired glucose tolerance: Individuals with PCOS have a higher risk of developing pre-diabetes. Individuals with pre-diabetes have blood glucose levels that are higher than normal but not high enough for a diagnosis of diabetes. This condition raises the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. Many individuals with pre-diabetes go on to develop type 2 diabetes within 10 years.

• Osteoporosis: Women who have POF may be at a higher risk of developing osteoporosis because they have low estrogen levels.

• Psychological issues: Psychological problems may exist along with ED, such as depression, stress, and anxiety.

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