Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is a condition in which women have hormonal imbalances that can affect fertility and pregnancy. According to the U.S Department of Health and Human Services, PCOS affects up to 10 percent of women of reproductive age.
What is Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome?
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder that affects women of reproductive age. Women with PCOS may experience symptoms such as irregular menstrual cycles, excessive hair growth, acne, and weight gain.
PCOS is caused by an imbalance of hormones, specifically an excess amount of androgens (male hormones) in the body.
This hormonal imbalance can interfere with the development and release of eggs from the ovaries, making it difficult for women to become pregnant.
How Does PCOS Affect Pregnancy?
PCOS can make it difficult for women to become pregnant, but it is still possible to conceive. Women with PCOS may have irregular cycles, making it harder to accurately predict ovulation. Additionally, PCOS can cause a woman to ovulate less frequently.
Women with PCOS are also at a higher risk for complications during pregnancy, including gestational diabetes, high blood pressure, and pre-eclampsia.
These conditions can further increase the risk of premature delivery and other pregnancy complications.
What are the Risks of Pregnancy with PCOS?
Women with PCOS have an increased risk of several pregnancy complications:.
- Gestational Diabetes – Women with PCOS are more likely to develop gestational diabetes during pregnancy due to insulin resistance.
- Pre-eclampsia – Women with PCOS have an increased risk of developing pre-eclampsia, a condition characterized by high blood pressure and damage to organs.
- Preterm Birth – Women with PCOS have a higher risk of giving birth prematurely, which can increase the risk of complications for the baby.
- C-section Delivery – Women with PCOS may be more likely to require a C-section delivery due to a larger baby or other complications.
- Miscarriage – Women with PCOS may have a higher risk of miscarriage, particularly in the first trimester.
Managing PCOS During Pregnancy
Women with PCOS who become pregnant will need to be closely monitored throughout their pregnancy to manage any potential risks. This includes frequent prenatal visits and monitoring blood pressure and blood sugar levels.
Doctors will also want to make sure that the baby is growing properly and may recommend additional ultrasounds to monitor fetal growth. Women with PCOS may need to take medication to manage their blood sugar or blood pressure levels during pregnancy.
After giving birth, women with PCOS may have an increased risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. They should continue to be closely monitored by a doctor and follow a healthy lifestyle to manage their risk.
Conclusion
PCOS can make it more challenging for women to become pregnant and can increase the risk of pregnancy complications. Women with PCOS who become pregnant will need to be closely monitored throughout their pregnancy to manage any potential risks.
By working with a doctor and following a healthy lifestyle, women with PCOS can increase their chances of a healthy pregnancy and delivery.