In this article:
What Happens to Your Body When Blood Sugar Is High in PCOD?
Insulin is a hormone released by your pancreas to control your blood sugar. When you have PCOD, your body becomes resistant to insulin, which means it stops responding to it. As a result, your pancreas produces more insulin to regulate sugar levels. You may think that will help, but instead it leads to the following side effects:
- It triggers your ovaries to produce more male hormones (androgens)
- It disturbs the normal growth and release of eggs
- It causes irregular periods, making it difficult to detect ovulation
How Can Uncontrolled Blood Sugar Affect Your Fertility?
High blood sugar and insulin resistance can lead to the following problems:
- You may stop ovulating regularly, which lowers your chances of natural conception.
- Excess insulin causes your body to store fat, primarily around the waist.
- Fluctuating sugar levels can reduce the quality of eggs, making it difficult for fertilisation and implantation.
- Insulin imbalance affects two key hormones for pregnancy, oestrogen and progesterone.
Why Should You Stabilise Blood Sugar Before Pregnancy?
Controlling your blood sugar gives you a better start at a healthy pregnancy that is free from any complications.
- PCOD increases the risk of gestational diabetes, making you 2–3 times more likely to develop it.
- Stable blood sugar levels lead to hormonal balance and regular ovulation.
- Good sugar control improves blood flow to reproductive organs, which improves your egg quality and uterine health.
- High sugar levels can increase the risk of miscarriage and high blood pressure.
What Are the Warning Signs of Unstable Blood Sugar?
- Frequent fatigue or tiredness
- Cravings for sweets or carbs
- Mood swings or constant irritability
- Weight gain, especially around the abdomen
- Irregular or missed periods
- Acne or excessive facial hair
How Can You Naturally Stabilise Blood Sugar Before Conception?
You don't always have to take medication to improve your blood sugar levels. Sometimes, a healthy lifestyle can make a difference.Eat Balanced Meals
- Eat whole grains, fresh fruits, vegetables, and lean protein.
- Do not forget to include healthy fats, such as nuts, seeds, and olive oil, in your meals.
- Avoid refined sugar, white flour, and processed snacks.
Exercise Regularly
- Walk for at least 30 minutes or practice yoga on most days of the week.
- Even 10–15 minutes of walking after meals can help stabilise blood sugar.
Prioritise Sleep
Manage Stress
Take Medical Guidance
- Metformin (a medicine that helps your body use insulin better)
- Supplements like myo-inositol and vitamin D (if required)
What To Do Before You Start Trying to Conceive?
The following guide can help you prepare your body for a healthy pregnancy.
- Get your blood sugar and insulin levels checked.
- Track your menstrual cycle and ovulation patterns.
- Maintain a healthy weight because a 5–10% reduction can also improve fertility.
- Choose a low-glycemic diet (foods that don’t spike blood sugar quickly).
- Avoid sugary drinks and junk food.
What Happens If You Conceive With Unstable Blood Sugar?
High blood sugar levels increase the risk factors during pregnancy.
- Miscarriage or chance of congenital disabilities.
- Gestational diabetes leading to large baby size and delivery complications.
- High blood pressure and preeclampsia during pregnancy.
- Preterm birth or cesarean delivery.
Emotional and Social Aspects
Fertility struggles can be emotionally challenging if you are already dealing with PCOD. You may feel frustrated with the delay in conception. However, stabilising your sugar levels is not just for you, but also for the baby, so that they can grow in a healthy uterine environment. Discuss your feelings when you're ready. It can be with your partner or family member. Their emotional support can be everything in these trying times.If you’re planning to conceive with PCOD, stabilising your blood sugar is the best way to go about it. It improves your hormonal balance, regulates ovulation, reduces pregnancy risks, and helps you have a healthier start to pregnancy.
You can take control of your fertility by following a healthy routine and working closely with your doctor.
You’re not alone in your journey when trying to conceive. Join our supportive community to connect with others, share experiences, and find encouragement every step of the way.
FAQs on Why It’s Important to Stabilise Blood Sugar Before Trying to Conceive With PCOD?
- Can I get pregnant naturally with PCOD if I control my blood sugar?
Natural pregnancy with PCOD is possible when your blood sugar is normal and your hormones are in balance. Managing your insulin resistance can help restore ovulation, making it easier for you to conceive. - How long does it take to stabilise blood sugar with PCOD?
Stable blood sugar levels depend on your lifestyle and medical condition; however, you may notice improvements within 6 months of making consistent changes. - Should I take medication before trying to conceive?
Medicines, like metformin, are prescribed only when lifestyle changes are not working in your favour. Your doctor will assess your condition and suggest medications that will help your case, so do not take any without their advice.
