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What is PCOS and How Does it Affect Pregnancy?
PCOS is a condition where your ovaries produce higher-than-normal levels of male hormones called androgens. When that happens, your periods can turn irregular or sometimes stop completely. This also affects ovulation (when your ovaries release an egg).Because of this imbalance, tiny fluid-filled sacs, known as cysts, may form in your ovaries. All of this can make it harder for you to get pregnant.
If you’re living with PCOS, getting pregnant can sometimes feel difficult because ovulation doesn’t always happen on time or regularly. But that doesn’t mean it’s impossible. Many people with PCOS do go on to conceive, some naturally and others with a little medical support. The important thing is to understand your condition and take steps to manage it.
Can You Get Pregnant with PCOS?
Yes, you can! PCOS can make getting pregnant a bit difficult because ovulation isn’t always regular, but many people with PCOS do successfully conceive. If you’re under 35 and ovulate regularly, you might conceive naturally within a year if you and your partner have no other fertility issues.For others, a few lifestyle changes or medical treatments can improve your chances:
- Keeping a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, and staying active can help regulate your cycle and support ovulation.
- If lifestyle changes aren’t enough, your doctor may suggest fertility treatments to help you ovulate.
- If you’ve been trying for over a year without success, or if you’re over 35, it’s a good idea to speak with a fertility specialist for proper guidance.
Treatments to Support Conception with PCOS
When you’re trying to get pregnant with PCOS, the main goal is to get your ovulation back on track and support your overall health.These are some ways that can help:
- Lifestyle changes: Losing just 5 to 10 per cent of your body weight if you’re overweight can really help regulate your periods and improve ovulation. Eating more whole grains, high-fibre foods, and protein can make a big difference.
- Fertility medications: Your doctor may prescribe medicines to stimulate ovulation. These can help your ovaries release an egg more predictably.
- Ovarian drilling: In some rare cases, if other treatments don’t work, a minor procedure called ovarian drilling may be recommended. It involves making small holes in the ovary’s surface to encourage ovulation.
- In vitro fertilisation (IVF): IVF can be an option if other treatments aren’t successful. This involves fertilising an egg in a lab and transferring the embryo to your uterus.
Pregnancy Complications Linked to PCOS
You may have a higher chance of certain complications if you are pregnant with PCOS.Being aware of these risks allows you to take steps to manage them:
- Miscarriage: People with PCOS may be more likely to experience early pregnancy loss, possibly due to hormonal imbalances or factors like weight or age.
- Gestational diabetes: This is when blood sugar levels rise during pregnancy, often in the second half. It usually resolves after delivery but requires careful monitoring.
- Preeclampsia: This is a serious condition characterised by the development of high blood pressure and protein in the urine. If untreated, it can affect your kidneys, liver, or cause seizures.
- High blood pressure: Pregnancy-induced hypertension is more common in people with PCOS and needs regular monitoring.
- Preterm birth: Babies may be born before 37 weeks. Early birth can sometimes cause breathing problems or delays in development.
- Larger babies (macrosomia): Your baby could be bigger than average, which can make delivery harder and sometimes lead to a caesarean or complications like shoulder dystocia.
- Neonatal intensive care: Babies born to parents with PCOS may have a higher chance of needing time in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).
How to Have a Healthy Pregnancy with PCOS
Having a healthy pregnancy with PCOS is definitely possible if you take the right steps. Here’s how you can take care of yourself and your baby:- Preconception care: Before you start trying to get pregnant, it’s a good idea to talk to your doctor. They can help you manage PCOS symptoms, review your medications, and suggest lifestyle changes that can improve your chances of conceiving.
- Healthy diet: What you eat makes a big difference. Focus on foods that keep your blood sugar steady. Try to limit caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine, as these can affect your health and your baby’s development.
- Exercise regularly: A doctor-approved exercise routine can help manage weight, reduce insulin resistance, and lower stress.
- Monitor health markers: Keep an eye on your blood pressure, blood sugar, and weight during pregnancy. Regular check-ups with your doctor are really important so any issues can be spotted and treated early.
- Take prescribed medications: Follow your doctor’s advice when it comes to medicines.
- Manage stress: PCOS can be stressful, and pregnancy adds another layer. Techniques like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing can help you stay calm.
Whether you’re trying to conceive or navigating IVF, you’re not alone. Join our supportive communities to connect, share, and find strength with others on the same journey.
FAQs on Pregnancy with PCOS? Here's How You Can Make it Happen
- Does PCOS affect breastfeeding?
Yes, PCOS can sometimes make it harder to produce enough milk because of hormone changes and insulin resistance. - Can PCOS cause multiple pregnancies?
PCOS by itself doesn’t cause twins or more, but fertility treatments that help you ovulate can increase the chances of having multiples.