PCOS and pregnancy – This is probably the most talked about topic among women who are trying to conceive. Although there has been an increase in awareness of the condition, many women don’t realize they have it until they attempt to conceive. Although PCOS can make it difficult to conceive, have a baby, and may cause problems with pregnancy and childbirth in the future, you can now safely treat the symptoms. Let’s learn more about the disease and how it causes complications.
What’s PCOS?
PCOS, or polycystic-ovary syndrome, is a hormonal imbalance in women who are of reproductive age. This condition can cause the woman’s ovaries to become larger and produce many harmless fluid-filled sacs (follicles). These follicles can be used to develop eggs. If you have PCOS these follicles will not release matured eggs.
Common symptoms in PCOS
PCOS is a common condition that affects many women. These symptoms can be treated but some women don’t even experience any symptoms. It is possible to go undiagnosed. If you are overweight or obese, the symptoms of PCOS may get worse. These are symptoms of PCOS you might notice:
Irregular or no periods
Excessive pain in periods that are accompanied by heavy flow
Excessive male hormones or orrogen can cause hirsutism (i.e., hair growth on the chest, back, or butt
* Oily skin, breakouts such as acne
Hair loss or hair thinning that results in male pattern hair loss
* Excessive weight gain
* Difficulty conceiving
* Pelvic pain
Anxiety and Depression
How do you manage your PCOS
Although PCOS can’t be completely cured, it is possible to manage the symptoms and get pregnant. Understanding the causes of PCOS is important in order to be able to manage it.
PCOS can be caused by an excess of male hormone, or androgen. This can also be triggered if there is an excessive amount of insulin production, which is responsible for maintaining blood sugar levels. Insulin resistance is a condition where the body makes more insulin, which can lead to PCOS in many women. PCOS can also be inherited and can be exacerbated by weight gain. Here are some ways to manage PCOS:
Healthy and balanced eating
* Losing weight
Stopping or avoiding smoking
* Hormonal medication (such as birth control pills) that regulate hormone levels
Laparoscopic ovarian drill – This is a quick surgical procedure that uses heat and laser to remove the tissues responsible for producing male hormones such as testosterone
Pregnancy complications during PCOS
Many women are able to get pregnant. Others may have difficulty due to lifestyle changes. PCOS can decrease the chance of conception because of the higher levels of male hormones that prevent the maturation of eggs and hinder their release. PCOS can also pose other risks to pregnant women, such as gestational diabetes and miscarriage. High blood pressure can also increase the likelihood of other diseases such as Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, high cholesterol, sleep apnea, and cardiovascular disease. These can all have a negative impact on you and your baby. Women with PCOS may also need to have a C-section if they want to give birth.
If you are suffering from PCOS and desire to have a baby, there is hope. Modern technology has made it possible to safely have a baby and to carry them to term. A complete body exam is the first step to understanding your current condition. Many women don’t have symptoms. It’s important to talk with your doctor if you are having difficulty conceiving, or if you have relatives who have the condition. You may not have symptoms of PCOS, but you may also be suffering from other fertility issues. Your doctor may recommend a few things depending on your condition to help you conceive. The following are some of the options:
Weight loss – even a 5-10% weight loss has been shown to dramatically increase your chances of having a baby and manage the symptoms of PCOS
Monitoring hormone levels, tracking ovulation cycles, and noting down menstrual cycles can help you assess your situation and prepare for the same
* Medications: If the above fail, your doctor may recommend fertility medication to increase your chances of having a baby naturally
* You can consult doctors at fertility clinics if your medications fail to work.
Key takeaway
PCOS is more common in women than ever before, and there has been more information about it. Although this term was not as well-known in previous generations, it is now widely used and most women are aware of it. This information has led to more research and studies. This has allowed women with PCOS to live relatively normal lives. They can safely conceive and give birth, and they can also manage their symptoms.
FAQ
What happens during pregnancy to PCOS?
PCOS is not an incurable condition and cannot be completely cured. The symptoms can be managed with lifestyle changes and medication. Due to the potential health risks associated with PCOS and pregnancy, it is important to monitor your health during pregnancy. To minimize the impact of PCOS during pregnancy, follow the advice of your doctor and be healthy.
What does PCOS mean for early pregnancy?
PCOS can cause many conditions in women, including diabetes, high blood pressure, and cholesterol, which could affect the unborn baby. PCOS women are at higher risk for miscarriage. It is possible to have safe pregnancy and delivery with PCOS if you have the right information, precautions, and guidance from your doctor.
Can PCOS cause congenital disabilities?
Although studies have not proven that PCOS causes congenital disability, there are other side effects and symptoms that can impact the health of your child during childbirth. It is important to learn more about PCOS and to follow all doctor’s recommendations.
What’s the success rate for PCOS pregnancy?
Although many women with PCOS struggle to get pregnant, it is possible with lifestyle changes such as losing weight, quitting smoking, and consulting a doctor for any other medication or changes.
What happens to PCOS if it is not treated?
PCOS, if left untreated can lead to worsening of other symptoms.
