Diabetes is associated with lower rates of fertility. Obesity can play a part, as well as being underweight, having diabetic complications, having an autoimmune disease, or having PCOS. While diabetes can contribute to infertility, many women with diabetes are able to conceive when their diabetes is well controlled and they maintain a healthy body weight.
These conditions are associated with reduced fertility rates:
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- Oligomenorrhea (irregular periods)
- Secondary amenorrhea (absent periods)
- Premature menopause (premature ovarian failure)
- Endometrial cancer (uterine cancer)
- Microvascular and cardiovascular complications
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
PCOS is associated with obesity and type 2 diabetes. Those with type 1 diabetes that are taking high amounts of insulin daily may also be at risk of PCOS. It is a common condition that causes a large number of cysts to develop on the ovaries. This does not pose a health risk, but it can reduce fertility. PCOS can lead to irregular periods or absent periods.
Oligomenorrhea & Secondary Amenorrhea
Oligomenorrhea defines irregular periods that arrive at intervals of 35 days or more between each period. Secondary amenorrhea is characterized by not getting a period for 6 months or longer after previously having a normal menstrual cycle. Type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes are associated with increased risks of late and absent periods.
Premature Menopause
Premature menopause occurs when a woman reaches menopause, when periods stop, before the age of 40. Research has shown that type 1 diabetes is associated with a greater risk of menstrual problems, including premature menopause. Type 2 diabetes has also been associated with greater rates of premature menopause.
Endometrial Cancer
Endometrial cancer is more common in women with type 2 diabetes and PCOS. It can lead to infertility if it is not diagnosed and treated early enough.
Microvascular & Cardiovascular Complications
A study has shown that women with type 1 diabetes with complications of diabetes, including microvascular and cardiovascular complications, experienced much lower fertility rates.
NCCRM
The North Carolina Center for Reproductive Medicine/Talbert Fertility Institute is the premiere center for reproductive health in North Carolina and the East Coast. Our team specializes in fertility testing, diagnosis, and treatment of infertility conditions. We’re experts in IVF, Tubal Ligation Reversal, Male Infertility, Intrauterine Insemination (IUI), Gestation Surrogacy, Family Balancing, and more. Contact us today and learn more about our egg donor program here.
