Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder that affects about 5% to 10% of women of reproductive age. Women with PCOS have irregular menstrual cycles, high levels of androgens (male hormones), and polycystic ovaries.

PCOS has been associated with several pregnancy complications, including Gestational Diabetes (GDM) and Preeclampsia.

What is Gestational Diabetes (GDM)?

GDM is a type of diabetes that occurs during pregnancy. The hormones produced by the placenta can make it difficult for the mother’s body to use insulin properly, resulting in high blood sugar levels.

If not properly managed, GDM can cause serious health problems for both the mother and the baby.

How is PCOS a Risk Factor for GDM?

Women with PCOS have a higher risk of developing GDM than women without PCOS. This is partly due to insulin resistance, which is a hallmark of PCOS. Insulin resistance makes it difficult for the body to use insulin effectively.

This results in high blood sugar levels, which can lead to GDM. Additionally, pregnant women with PCOS tend to have higher levels of androgens, which can also contribute to insulin resistance and GDM.

Symptoms of GDM

Most women with GDM have no symptoms, which is why it is important to have regular check-ups with a healthcare provider during pregnancy. Some women may experience symptoms such as increased thirst, frequent urination, and fatigue.

Complications of GDM

If left untreated, GDM can cause serious health problems for both the mother and the baby. Complications of GDM include:.

Large birth weight
Preterm birth
Baby born with low blood sugar
Jaundice and respiratory problems in the baby
Increased risk of cesarean delivery
Preeclampsia
Increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life

What is Preeclampsia?

Preeclampsia is a pregnancy complication characterized by high blood pressure and damage to organs, such as the kidneys and liver. It usually occurs after the 20th week of pregnancy and can be life-threatening for both the mother and the baby.

How is PCOS a Risk Factor for Preeclampsia?

Women with PCOS have a higher risk of developing preeclampsia than women without PCOS. The exact reason for this is not known, but it is thought to be related to insulin resistance and inflammation, both of which are common in women with PCOS.

Additionally, women with PCOS tend to have higher levels of androgens, which may contribute to the development of preeclampsia.

Symptoms of Preeclampsia

Most women with preeclampsia have no symptoms, which is why it is important to have regular check-ups with a healthcare provider during pregnancy. Some women may experience symptoms such as:.

High blood pressure
Protein in the urine
Swelling of the hands, feet, and face
Severe headaches
Blurred vision

Complications of Preeclampsia

If left untreated, preeclampsia can cause serious health problems for both the mother and the baby. Complications of preeclampsia include:.

Preterm birth
Placental abruption
Poor fetal growth
Organ damage in the mother (such as kidney failure)
Eclampsia (seizures in the mother)
Mother or baby death

Prevention and Treatment

Women with PCOS who are pregnant should have regular check-ups with a healthcare provider to monitor for GDM and preeclampsia. Lifestyle modifications such as a healthy diet and exercise can help reduce the risk of both of these complications.

In some cases, medication may be necessary to manage GDM and/or preeclampsia.

Conclusion

PCOS is a common hormonal disorder that affects many women of reproductive age. Women with PCOS have a higher risk of developing GDM and preeclampsia during pregnancy.

It is important for women with PCOS who are pregnant to have regular check-ups with a healthcare provider to monitor for these complications.