Can a woman with Swyer syndrome become pregnant?

Yes, a woman with Swyer syndrome can become pregnant, although not through natural conception.

Because Swyer syndrome is characterized by the presence of XY chromosomes in a phenotypically female individual, resulting in underdeveloped or absent ovaries, women with Swyer syndrome do not produce eggs. However, pregnancy is possible through assisted reproductive technologies (ART), specifically in vitro fertilization (IVF) with donor eggs.

Here's a breakdown:

• Why natural conception is not possible: Swyer syndrome typically results in streak gonads (non-functional rudimentary ovaries) that do not produce eggs or female sex hormones. The uterus may also be hypoplastic (underdeveloped).

• How pregnancy is achieved:

  1. Ovum (egg) Donation: A donor egg from a healthy woman is fertilized with sperm (usually from the intended father).

  2. In Vitro Fertilization (IVF): The fertilized egg (embryo) is grown in a laboratory.

  3. Hormone Replacement Therapy: The woman with Swyer syndrome undergoes hormone replacement therapy (estrogen and progesterone) to prepare the lining of her uterus for implantation and to support the pregnancy.

  4. Embryo Transfer: The embryo is transferred into the uterus of the woman with Swyer syndrome.

  5. Pregnancy Monitoring: Close monitoring during pregnancy is essential.

• Uterine Development: Although the uterus might be hypoplastic, hormone replacement therapy helps it develop sufficiently to support a pregnancy in many cases.

• Important Considerations:

  • Genetic counseling is recommended to discuss the implications of using donor eggs.
  • Psychological support can be beneficial throughout the process.

In summary, while women with Swyer syndrome cannot conceive naturally due to the absence of functional ovaries, successful pregnancies are achievable through IVF with donor eggs and hormone replacement therapy.