June 15, 2021 3 min read
While having a regular menstrual cycle is a normal affair for most women, some might complain of irregular or fewer periods in a year. This may indicate what is referred to as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS or PCOD), a common hormonal disorder in women. About 5-10% of women in the world have PCOS, but most of them get to know only when they visit their doctors for pregnancy issues.
Women with PCOS often struggle to conceive naturally and have higher chances of developing complications during pregnancy.
What is PCOD or PCOS?
PCOS is a condition that results from an imbalance in the sex hormone in women between 15 and 45, irrespective of race and ethnicities. In PCOS, your body produces more male hormones (androgen) than normal. Women with PCOS show the following symptoms:
The causes of PCOS are not known clearly. However, stress, obesity, and family history are some of the common observations.
PCOS and Infertility - Is it hard to get pregnant with PCOS?
PCOS is one of the leading causes of infertility. Wondering how? Pregnancy results from the fusion of sperm (from male) and an egg (from female). Excess production of the male hormone during PCOS interferes with menstruation (periods) and prevents ovulation (release of an egg from the ovaries).
Diabetes and weight gain, commonly seen in women with PCOS, also interfere in natural conception. So, if you have been trying for a long time to conceive naturally and are still unable to do it, you probably need to get yourself checked for PCOS.
PCOS and Pregnancy
PCOS increases the risk of pregnancy- and delivery-related complications. Women with PCOS are at three times higher risk of miscarriage than those without PCOS. PCOS is also associated with gestational diabetes (diabetes during pregnancy), preeclampsia (sudden increase in BP), preterm birth, and Cesarean delivery or C-section.
Gestational diabetes has its set of problems. Preeclampsia during pregnancy may affect your liver, kidneys, and brain.
Can you conceive naturally with PCOS?
The good news is, even with PCOD, you stand a fair chance of conceiving naturally. The first thing you need to do is change your lifestyle and manage your stress levels. A stressful and sedentary lifestyle is the main contributing factor to PCOS. The following activities may help improve your chances of conceiving naturally:
And last but not least, have frequent intercourse and be optimistic. For a safe pregnancy with PCOS, you need to monitor your blood glucose level and BP regularly and manage stress.
June 21, 2021 3 min read
June 21, 2021 3 min read
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