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What Does PCOS & Pregnancy Mean?

Polycystic ovarian syndrome, also called PCOS, occurs when women develop cysts on their ovaries, which causes abnormal function. Women with PCOS often have changes in reproductive functions, such as a change in the menstrual cycle and problems with fertility.

  1. Statistics

    • According to the American Pregnancy Association, PCOS affects approximately 5 to 10% of women of child-bearing age.

    Fertility

    • Many women with PCOS suffer from fertility problems, which may occur because of changes in hormone levels, insulin, and glucose in the body. These can interfere with implantation as well embryo development. Changes in insulin levels may affect the health of eggs, which makes conception more difficult for women with PCOS. Because of the effect of PCOS on fertility, many women undergo fertility treatment.

    Complications

    • Even though women with PCOS can become pregnant, they can have more complications such as hypertension, preeclampsia, blood clotting problems, miscarriage, and gestational diabetes. Many women with this conditioin also have diabetes due to the body's inability to regulate insulin.

    Treatment

    • Treatment of PCOS often involves medication to aid fertility and promote ovulation. Some medications prescribed for polycystic ovarian syndrome are not safe for a baby in utero. If you want to become pregnant or are pregnant, it is important to discuss medications with your physician to protect your health. Treatment for PCOS during pregnancy will aim at monitoring hormones and insulin levels.

    Considerations

    • It is possible to have a healthy pregnancy, including maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise. Meeting with a nutritionist during pregnancy can help you formulate a meal plan that has essential nutrients and limited sodium, which are essential to keeping weight within a healthy range and decreasing blood pressure. The DASH diet may be recommended to help reduce hypertension. It is also important to reduce stress levels to protect you and your baby during pregnancy. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can reduce your risk of complications and repair hormonal problems.

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