You might not be aware of PCOS’s effects on fertility and pregnancy unless you suffer from polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). You can be suffering from this illness without even being aware of it, though, as it is one of the main causes of infertility. Pregnancy-related issues and difficulties are more common in women with PCOS Naturopath. Furthermore, babies born to women with PCOS have an increased chance of dying before, during, or shortly after delivery or spending time in the neonatal intensive care unit. Such risks may be due to pregnancy complications that are frequently linked to PCOS. Additionally, diseases associated with PCOS such as metabolic syndrome and elevated androgens may raise the hazards to babies.
What Is PCOS?
In Australia, between 6% and 12% of individuals with ovaries throughout reproductive age have PCOS, a hormonal condition. An imbalance in reproductive hormones is the condition’s defining feature. The menstrual cycle and the ovaries are hampered by the imbalance. The exact etiology of PCOS is unknown. Although factors such as genetics, an imbalance in reproductive hormones, and insulin resistance—basically, the inability of the body to properly use insulin—are probably all involved. Elevated levels of androgens, which include testosterone and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), may result from these abnormalities.
Due to anovulation, or the lack of ovulation, PCOS is frequently the cause of irregular menstrual cycles. PCOS is frequently associated with infertility since progesterone production and eventual conception depend on ovulation. In actuality, PCOS is thought to be a curable cause of infertility. To enhance your chances of becoming pregnant, treatment typically entails weight loss and ovulation assistance.
The following are pregnancy problems associated with PCOS:
- Miscarriage or premature pregnancy loss: Early in a pregnancy, women with PCOS had a three times higher chance of miscarrying than those without PCOS.2,3 Metformin may lower the chance of miscarriage for PCOS-affected pregnant women, according to certain research. More study is necessary because metformin’s ability to lower the risk of miscarriage has not been demonstrated by other trials. The reason why PCOS is linked to a higher risk of miscarriage is unknown, although possible causes include insulin resistance and unbalanced progesterone levels. Additionally, some studies believe that PCOS results in a low-grade, persistent inflammation.
- Gestational diabetes: Pregnant women are the only ones who can develop gestational diabetes. It is curable and doesn’t seriously harm the mother or fetus if left under control. The problem usually disappears when the baby is born. Babies whose moms have gestational diabetes may have low blood sugar, difficulty breathing, and be extremely large, necessitating a cesarean, or C-section, delivery. Later in life, type 2 diabetes is more likely to strike women who have gestational diabetes and their offspring.
- Preeclampsia: The mother’s kidneys, liver, and brain may be impacted by preeclampsia, which is characterized by an abrupt spike in blood pressure after the 20th week of pregnancy. Preeclampsia can develop into eclampsia if treatment is not received. Organ damage, convulsions, and even death are possible outcomes of eclampsia. The main course of treatment for the illness at the moment is delivery of the baby, even if it happens prematurely. Preeclamptic pregnant women may need a cesarean delivery, which carries significant risks for the mother and unborn child.
- Elevated blood pressure is brought on during pregnancy: High blood pressure, which can happen in the second half of pregnancy, is the cause of this disorder. If left untreated, preeclampsia may result. This kind of hypertension may potentially impact the baby’s delivery.
- Premature delivery: If a baby is born before 37 weeks of pregnancy, it is referred to as “preterm”. Preterm babies are vulnerable to a variety of health issues, some of which can be life-threatening, both immediately after birth and in the future.
- Birth via cesarean or C-section: Pregnancy problems related to PCOS, such as pregnancy-induced hypertension, increase the likelihood of cesarean sections for pregnant women with the disorder. As a C-section delivery involves surgery, there are dangers involved for both the mother and the child. Moreover, recuperation from the procedure may take longer than after a vaginal birth.
Final Takeaway
While it could require some extra help, becoming pregnant with PCOS is not inevitable. For the best chance of a safe and successful pregnancy, a healthcare professional should closely monitor your pregnancy from the beginning. They must also provide additional treatment for Endometriosis Naturopath. Consult your healthcare professional to ensure a safe pregnancy and delivery if you have PCOS and become pregnant.