Get answers to common PCOS and pregnancy questions. Meri Sehat guides you for a healthy pregnancy

PCOS And Pregnancy – Common FAQs

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Iqra Mazhar

Overview

PCOS, or polycystic ovary syndrome, is a common hormonal disorder that can have an impact on your reproductive health and fertility. It affects nearly 6-10% of girls and adult women worldwide<a href="#accordion">[1]</a>.

<a href="https://merisehat.pk/disease/polycystic-ovary-syndrome-pcos">PCOS</a> is commonly associated with menstrual cycle and fertility issues. This is due to the hormonal imbalance and the possibility of small cysts or fluid-filled sacs in your ovaries. As a result, your periods are irregular and you have difficulty getting pregnant.

But that is not all. PCOS can also have an impact on your overall health, increasing your risk of conditions such as endometrial cancer. It is a chronic condition that necessitates medical treatment and management. 
&nbsp;

Yes, pregnancy with PCOS is possible. However, you may find it more difficult than other females who do not have PCOS. PCOS affects one in every ten women of childbearing age<a href="#accordion">[3]</a>.

The syndrome frequently causes absent or irregular menstruation, making it difficult to predict when ovulation will occur. Only 20% of women with PCOS ovulate<a href="#accordion">[2]</a>.

Because it is necessary for the egg to be released from your ovary for conception to occur, irregular ovulation only adds to the uncertainty and decreases your chances of becoming pregnant. 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Medical Interventions</li>
</ul>

Fertility treatments, such as medications (e.g., Clomid or letrozole) to induce ovulation or assisted reproductive techniques (e.g., in vitro fertilization), can help regulate ovulation and improve the chances of successful conception. 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Natural Conception</li>
</ul>

Every woman&#39;s experience with PCOS is unique. While some women with PCOS struggle to conceive naturally, others do so with little difficulty.

Eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and staying hydrated, as well as tracking your menstrual cycles, can all help.

You can also use ovulation predictor kits to detect the LH surge that occurs prior to ovulation and engage in regular, timed intercourse around the predicted ovulation window. 
&nbsp;

Note: Remember that what works for one person may not work for another. If you have PCOS and are trying to conceive, you should see a fertility specialist. They can offer advice, recommend appropriate treatments, and track your progress to increase your chances of having a successful pregnancy. 
&nbsp;

There are several things to consider if you conceive despite PCOS: 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Increased Risk Of Miscarriage</li>
</ul>

There is some evidence that you may have a threefold risk of miscarriage compared to those who do not have PCOS<a href="#accordion">[8]</a>. The precise reasons for this are unknown, but hormonal imbalances and egg quality issues are likely contributing factors. 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Gestational Diabetes</li>
</ul>

During pregnancy, you may be more prone to developing gestational diabetes. This is a form of <a href="https://merisehat.pk/disease/diabetes-type-1-and-2">diabetes</a> that occurs during pregnancy and can impact both your and your baby&#39;s health. It can result in excessive fetal growth (macrosomia) and an increased risk of delivery complications. Proper monitoring and management are essential for a healthy pregnancy. 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>High Blood Pressure And Preeclampsia</li>
</ul>

You are also at a high risk of developing high blood pressure and preeclampsia during pregnancy. Preeclampsia is a serious condition that causes organ damage, particularly to the liver and kidneys. Regular prenatal care and monitoring are critical for detecting and managing these conditions and ensuring the health of your fetus. 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Premature Delivery</li>
</ul>

According to some studies, PCOS pregnancy increases the risk of preterm birth, or giving birth before 37 weeks. The reasons for this association are complex and remain unknown. 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>C-Section</li>
</ul>

Another risk is having a cesarean section due to factors such as larger babies or complications during pregnancy. 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Fetal Development</li>
</ul>

Certain PCOS risk factors, such as insulin resistance and high androgen levels, may result in birth defects. However, the overall risk is low.

Babies born to mothers who have gestational diabetes or other PCOS complications may be at a higher risk of neonatal health issues such as low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) or respiratory distress.

Furthermore, there is some evidence that babies born to PCOS mothers have a slightly increased risk of developing obesity and insulin resistance later in life. If it&rsquo;s a girl, she has a 50% chance of developing PCOS<a href="#accordion">[7]</a>. 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Other Complications</li>
</ul>

PCOS can also increase the risk of other pregnancy complications such as sleep apnea, heart disease, and stroke<a href="#accordion">[5]</a>. Nearly half of all women with PCOS are overweight or obese, increasing their risk of having a fatty liver<a href="#accordion">[1]</a>.

Around 10% of overweight women with PCOS develop type 2 diabetes, and nearly 35% become prediabetic by the age of 40<a href="#accordion">[1]</a>. This increases androgen production even more.

It is important to remember that every pregnancy is different, and the results can vary greatly from person to person. While these risks exist, many women with PCOS have successful pregnancies and deliver healthy babies with proper medical care and monitoring.

So, if you have PCOS and are considering pregnancy, it&#39;s recommended to work closely with a healthcare provider, preferably one with experience in managing PCOS and pregnancy, to minimize potential risks and complications. 
&nbsp;

If you have PCOS and are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, here are some tips to help you manage both conditions:

<ul>
	<li>Prenatal Care</li>
</ul>

Begin getting prenatal care as soon as you find out you are pregnant. Attend all prenatal appointments, including physical examinations, ultrasounds, and screenings for potential complications. 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Blood Sugar Monitoring</li>
</ul>

Regular blood sugar monitoring and a healthy diet can help reduce the risk of gestational diabetes. 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Blood Pressure Monitoring</li>
</ul>

PCOS can increase the risk of high blood pressure and preeclampsia during pregnancy. Regular blood pressure monitoring and prenatal visits are critical for avoiding such complications. 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Weight Management</li>
</ul>

While it is not advised to try to lose weight while pregnant, it is crucial to work with your healthcare provider to manage weight gain in a healthy way. 
&nbsp;

Consider a diet that is well-balanced and full of whole grains, lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats. If your doctor approves, try to exercise regularly and in a moderate way.

These steps can support your baby&#39;s development, manage weight gain, increase insulin sensitivity, stabilize blood sugar levels, and lower the risk of complications. 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Stress Management</li>
</ul>

Manage your stress using breathing exercises, mindfulness exercises, or prenatal yoga, which can be healthy for both you and your unborn child. 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Medication And Supplements</li>
</ul>

Talk to your healthcare provider about your prescriptions. When pregnant, it may be necessary to change or stop taking some PCOS medications.

Your healthcare provider may also recommend prenatal vitamins containing folic acid and other essential nutrients to support your baby&#39;s growth and development<a href="#accordion">[2]</a>. Follow your provider&#39;s recommendations closely. 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Labor And Delivery Planning</li>
</ul>

Discuss your birth plan with your healthcare provider, taking into account any PCOS-specific considerations. 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Breastfeeding</li>
</ul>

Breastfeeding may improve insulin sensitivity and weight management. Talk to your doctor about your plans.

Note: The key to a healthy pregnancy and a positive outcome for both you and your baby is to communicate openly with your healthcare provider, follow their recommendations, and prioritize self-care. 
&nbsp;

If you have PCOS and want to avoid getting pregnant, it&#39;s important to use effective contraceptive methods. Because PCOS can cause irregular menstrual cycles and unpredictable ovulation, relying solely on natural methods for preventing pregnancy, such as tracking your menstrual cycle, may not be as effective. 
&nbsp;

Here are some contraceptive options to consider:

<ul>
	<li>Hormonal Birth Control</li>
</ul>

Hormonal methods, like birth control pills, patches, or hormonal intrauterine devices (IUDs), can help regulate your menstrual cycle, manage PCOS symptoms, and provide reliable contraception. 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Barrier Methods</li>
</ul>

Both male and female condoms are effective at preventing pregnancy and also protecting against sexually transmitted infections. 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Long-Acting Reversible Contraceptives</li>
</ul>

Contraceptive implants, for example, provide long-term contraception without the need for daily monitoring. 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Sterilization</li>
</ul>

If you are certain that you do not want to have children in the future, your doctor may recommend permanent methods such as tubal ligation (for women) or vasectomy (for men). 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Emergency Contraception (Rare)</li>
</ul>

If you have unprotected intercourse, emergency contraception (also known as the morning-after pill) can be used to reduce the risk of pregnancy within a specific time frame. However, this is not a regular form of contraception and should only be used in emergencies. 
&nbsp;

Note: It&#39;s important to discuss your options with a healthcare provider who can help you choose the method that best suits your health needs and lifestyle. They can also guide you in managing PCOS symptoms while using contraception.

Remember that no method of contraception is 100% effective, so it is best to use a combination of methods (e.g., hormonal birth control plus condoms) for maximum protection. 
&nbsp;

If you become pregnant or are trying to conceive, some PCOS medications may need to be adjusted or stopped. It is critical to collaborate with your healthcare provider to ensure that you are on the correct medications and dosages throughout your pregnancy. 
&nbsp;

Here are some common PCOS medications and their potential pregnancy effects:

<ul>
	<li>Metformin</li>
</ul>

Metformin is frequently used to manage insulin resistance and improve ovulation in PCOS women. It can also be used to lower the chances of miscarriage. 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Clomiphene Citrate (Clomid)</li>
</ul>

Clomid can induce ovulation and is commonly used to assist women with PCOS in becoming pregnant. If you become pregnant while taking Clomid, your doctor will most likely advise you to stop because it is not recommended during pregnancy. 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Letrozole</li>
</ul>

Letrozole is another medication that is occasionally used to induce ovulation in PCOS women. If you become pregnant while taking Letrozole, your healthcare provider may advise you to stop taking it. 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Anti-Androgen Medications</li>
</ul>

PCOS symptoms are sometimes treated with medications such as spironolactone or flutamide. These medications are generally not recommended during pregnancy due to potential risks to the developing fetus. 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Birth Control Pills</li>
</ul>

Birth control pills are often used to regulate menstrual cycles and manage PCOS symptoms. If you intend to become pregnant, you should discontinue using birth control pills. 
&nbsp;

Yes, PCOS can affect eggs or ova in several ways, including:

<ul>
	<li>Anovulation</li>
</ul>

Ovulation is the process by which a mature egg is released from the ovary. Ovulation irregularity or absence is a defining feature of PCOS. 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Immature Follicles</li>
</ul>

Follicles are fluid-filled sacs in your ovaries that contain developing eggs. Your ovaries may contain many small follicles that fail to mature and release eggs if you have PCOS. These follicles can build up and resemble the characteristic &quot;cysts&quot; seen on ultrasound. 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Quality Of Eggs</li>
</ul>

Eggs that do not mature properly are more likely to have chromosomal abnormalities, which can increase the risk of miscarriage. This defect usually occurs as a result of overexposure to male hormones like testosterone<a href="#accordion">[2]</a>.

While PCOS can affect egg quality and ovulation, many individuals with PCOS are still able to conceive with appropriate medical interventions. 
&nbsp;

Important!

Egg freezing, also known as oocyte cryopreservation, is a method of preserving a woman&#39;s eggs for future use. It is frequently chosen by women who want to postpone childbearing for a variety of reasons, including medical concerns. The procedure involves stimulating the ovaries to produce multiple eggs, which are then retrieved, frozen, and stored until needed.

For women with PCOS, egg freezing can present some unique challenges due to the hormonal imbalances associated with the condition. PCOS can result in higher levels of certain hormones and possibly more follicles developing in the ovaries. While this may appear to be beneficial for egg retrieval, it can also increase the risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), a condition in which the ovaries become swollen and painful.

Consult with a reproductive endocrinologist or fertility specialist before undergoing egg freezing. They can tailor the ovarian stimulation protocol to reduce the risk of OHSS while increasing the number of eggs retrieved. Regular monitoring is required during the process to ensure safety and efficacy. 
&nbsp;

understanding how pcos affects pregnancy

During and after pregnancy, PCOS can have a variety of effects on your body, including:

<ul>
	<li>Return Of Symptoms</li>
</ul>

Because of hormonal changes, you may experience a temporary improvement in PCOS symptoms during pregnancy. However, the symptoms of PCOS will reappear once you give birth and your hormone levels return to normal. 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Irregular Menstrual Cycles</li>
</ul>

PCOS-related irregular menstrual cycles may persist after pregnancy, making it critical to manage your reproductive health even if you do not intend to have another child right away. 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Weight Management</li>
</ul>

Weight management can be difficult when you have PCOS, and it can continue after pregnancy. Weight management is still important for overall health and managing PCOS symptoms. 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Increased Hormonal Changes</li>
</ul>

Significant hormonal changes can occur during pregnancy and childbirth. Some research suggests that breastfeeding may improve insulin sensitivity in women with PCOS<a href="#accordion">[7].</a> However, this varies from person to person. 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Long-Term Health</li>
</ul>

PCOS increases the risk of developing long-term health issues, such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and metabolic syndrome.

Women with PCOS are also said to be more likely to suffer from depression. It&#39;s important to prioritize mental health and seek support if needed. 
&nbsp;

Note: Regular medical check-ups and open communication with healthcare providers can help you manage your health effectively. 
&nbsp;

PCOS and pregnancy share some symptoms, but they also have distinct features.

Missed or irregular periods, breast changes, mood changes, and weight gain are some of the similarities between the two. 
&nbsp;

Symptoms of PCOS include:

<ul>
	<li>Acne</li>
	<li>Oily skin</li>
	<li>Hirsutism</li>
	<li>Problems with weight management</li>
	<li>Pain or discomfort during ovulation 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Signs and symptoms indicating pregnancy include:

<ul>
	<li>Frequent urination</li>
	<li>Food cravings and aversions</li>
	<li>Morning sickness (nausea and vomiting)</li>
	<li>Fatigue (especially in the first trimester) 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

A positive pregnancy test is a sure sign of pregnancy. Pregnancy tests can identify human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), which is produced as a result of hormonal changes during pregnancy.

Consult a medical professional if you think you might be pregnant or if you have PCOS and are showing symptoms. They can conduct appropriate testing, evaluation, and counseling to determine the cause of your symptoms and provide appropriate care. 
&nbsp;

Note<a href="#accordion">[3]</a>

<ul>
	<li>False negatives occur more frequently than false positives.</li>
	<li>While PCOS has no direct effect on hCG, certain medications used in fertility treatment can cause a false positive pregnancy test result.</li>
	<li>False positives can also occur as a result of an expired pregnancy test, a delayed review of the test results, or incorrectly following the instructions.</li>
	<li>Also, because PCOS increases the risk of miscarriage, you may test positive at first and then test negative.</li>
	<li>False negatives are possible if you test immediately after missing a period. So, despite having conceived, you have a negative outcome.</li>
	<li>Avoid taking early pregnancy tests to avoid false negatives and positives. 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

PCOS may increase the risk of multiple pregnancies. According to one study, the risk of having twins or more is 9.1% in women with PCOS versus 1.1% in those who do not have PCOS<a href="#accordion">[10]</a>.

<ul>
	<li>Stimulation Of Multiple Follicles</li>
</ul>

Women with PCOS may develop multiple follicles in their ovaries due to hormonal imbalances. These follicles can potentially mature and release eggs at the same time, increasing the chances of having more than one baby. 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Fertility Treatments</li>
</ul>

Many women with PCOS seek fertility treatments, such as ovulation-inducing medications like Clomid or letrozole, to help them conceive. These treatments can occasionally cause the release of multiple eggs, increasing the likelihood of multiple pregnancies. 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Genetics</li>
</ul>

There may be a genetic component that predisposes some women to both PCOS and the release of multiple eggs during ovulation.

In some cases, multiple pregnancies may increase the risk of complications such as preterm birth, gestational diabetes, and preeclampsia. However, with proper prenatal care and medical supervision, many women with PCOS are able to carry multiple pregnancies to term and deliver healthy babies. 
&nbsp;

Teen pregnancy can present unique challenges, and if you have PCOS, you may need to consider the following factors:

<ul>
	<li>Increased Health Risks</li>
</ul>

Teens with PCOS who become pregnant may be more likely to experience pregnancy complications such as gestational diabetes, high blood pressure, and premature birth. 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Support And Education</li>
</ul>

Teenagers with PCOS who are thinking about getting pregnant should seek medical attention and support. It is essential to receive proper education about PCOS and pregnancy risks. 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Lifestyle Factors</li>
</ul>

Healthy lifestyle habits are critical for managing PCOS and ensuring a healthy pregnancy. 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Psychosocial Support</li>
</ul>

Teenagers with PCOS who become pregnant may experience emotional and psychological challenges. It is essential to counsel and/or support them.

Teenagers who have PCOS should be aware of their condition, be able to make educated choices regarding their reproductive health, and have access to the necessary medical care.

Consult with medical professionals with expertise in both PCOS and adolescent reproductive health if you or a teenager you know with PCOS is thinking about getting pregnant. Open communication, education, and proper medical care are essential for ensuring the best possible outcome for both the mother and the baby. 
&nbsp;

Pregnancy screenings, which typically include tests to monitor the health of the developing fetus and the pregnant individual, are not designed to detect or diagnose PCOS directly. PCOS is a hormonal and metabolic disorder that affects the ovaries and menstrual cycle, and it is usually diagnosed based on symptoms.

However, some aspects of pregnancy screenings may provide indirect information about PCOS:

<ul>
	<li>Ultrasound scans during pregnancy can help monitor the growth and development of the fetus. During these scans, the healthcare provider may notice multiple small follicles in the ovaries, which can indicate PCOS. This observation, however, is insufficient to make a PCOS diagnosis.</li>
	<li>Routine screening for gestational diabetes may reveal insulin resistance, which is linked to PCOS. This may prompt further testing for PCOS following pregnancy.</li>
	<li>Pregnancy can alter hormonal levels. The hormonal changes associated with pregnancy can temporarily alleviate PCOS symptoms in some cases. This, however, does not confirm PCOS. 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Consult a medical professional if you think you might have PCOS or if you are having trouble conceiving and think it might be related to PCOS. 
&nbsp;

Key Points

<ul>
	<li>PCOS is a hormonal disorder that causes a variety of symptoms, such as irregular periods and trouble getting pregnant.</li>
	<li>About 50% of PCOS-afflicted women are either unaware of their condition or have an incorrect diagnosis<a href="#accordion">[5]</a>.</li>
	<li>The majority of women in their 20s and 30s learn they have PCOS when they have trouble getting pregnant. But PCOS can develop at any time after puberty<a href="#accordion">[6]</a>.</li>
	<li>Around 70-80% of females with PCOS struggle with infertility<a href="#accordion">[4]</a>. It&rsquo;s a major reason why 90-95 of women visit infertility clinics<a href="#accordion">[9]</a>.</li>
	<li>If you have PCOS, getting pregnant might take a little longer.</li>
	<li>A healthy lifestyle is the best way to relieve your symptoms and increase your chances of getting pregnant. You can improve fertility and reduce other PCOS symptoms by losing just 5% of your body weight<a href="#accordion">[5]</a>. This is due to the fact that fat tissue produces its own estrogen, and losing weight can facilitate ovulation.</li>
	<li>Medical interventions may be required in some cases. Approximately 20-40% of women with PCOS become pregnant following IVF treatment<a href="#accordion">[5]</a>.</li>
</ul>

[1] Polycystic ovary syndrome: Medlineplus Genetics. MedlinePlus.

[2] PCOS egg quality: How to improve egg quality. Fertility Family.

[3] Smith-Garcia D. PCOS and pregnancy tests: How to detect pregnancy with PCOS. Healthline.

[4] Top PCOS and Fertility Facts. Institute for Human Reproduction - Fertility Treatments.

[5] Iftikhar N. How to get pregnant with PCOS. Healthline.

[6] Polycystic ovary syndrome. Polycystic ovary syndrome | Office on Women’s Health.

[7] Brusie C. Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and pregnancy: Symptoms. Healthline.

[8] Melchor LO. How PCOS affects pregnancy. Parents.

[9] Risk of Infertility Index in Women with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome. JCPSP.

[10] M. Mikola and others, Obstetric outcome in women with polycystic ovarian syndrome, Human Reproduction, Volume 16, Issue 2, February 2001, Pages 226–229,