How Does PCOS Affect Pregnancy?
PCOS can make it difficult to conceive naturally because ovarian cysts interfere with ovulation. in between 70-80% of people with polycystic ovary syndrome are infertile; however, you can increase your chances of conception with the guidance of a specialist and fertility treatments.
People with PCOS are the same three times more likely to experience early pregnancy loss. According to a 2023 study through Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolismthe drug metformin (commonly used to treat type 2 diabetes) may help to reduce the chance of miscarriage in these types of cases.
In addition, PCOS is associated with an increased risk of the following pregnancy complications:
Gestational Diabetes
This type of diabetes only affects pregnant women and, when treated properly, generally resolves after delivery. Babies whose birth parents have gestational diabetes may be larger for their gestational age, have lower blood sugar levels, and have difficulty breathing after birth. For the birth parent, the risk of cesarean delivery increases due to the size of the baby. Additionally, birth parents with gestational diabetes and their babies are at increased risk for type 2 diabetes later in life.
Preeclampsia
Characterized by high blood pressure that rises in the second half of pregnancy (after the 20-week mark), preeclampsia can cause damage to organ systems in the birth parent’s body, usually the liver and kidneys, and in some cases, the brain. If left untreated, preeclampsia can develop eclampsiaa rare, life-threatening condition that can lead to seizures and even death.
Preterm Birth
Newborns are considered preterm if they are born before 37 weeks of pregnancy. These preemies may suffer lifelong impactsuch as poor health and growth, visual and hearing disabilities, learning disabilities, and more.
