PCOS and Pregnancy: Understanding the Challenges and Reducing the Risks

PCOS and Pregnancy: Gestational Diabetes

This type of diabetes, caused by insulin resistance in women with PCOS, is diagnosed for the first time during pregnancy. Gestational diabetes is a type of diabetes that only affects pregnant women. It is characterized by elevated blood sugar levels, first diagnosed during pregnancy. Although it is usually temporary and disappears after childbirth, it can cause complications for both the mother and the fetus, such as excessive weight gain of the baby, low blood sugar levels, and respiratory problems. Additionally, women who have had gestational diabetes, as well as their children, are at a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life.

Solution: Follow a balanced diet by increasing protein and fiber intake, engage in daily walking, and closely monitor glucose levels under the supervision of a healthcare professional. It is important to understand that a woman suffering from gestational diabetes also suffers from insulin resistance, and after childbirth, the measures implemented during pregnancy to improve the condition should be continued.

To monitor and manage gestational diabetes, several tests are performed. Here are the main ones:

1. Glucose Screening Test (Glucose Tolerance Test):

• One-Hour Glucose Screening Test: A sugary solution is ingested, and blood glucose levels are measured one hour later. If levels are high, a more comprehensive glucose tolerance test is conducted.

• Three-Hour Glucose Tolerance Test: After an overnight fast, a sugary solution is ingested, and blood glucose levels are measured while fasting and then one, two, and three hours after ingestion.

• Postpartum Glucose Tolerance Test: Conducted about six to twelve weeks after childbirth to check if gestational diabetes has resolved.
• Regular Blood Glucose Monitoring: To monitor the long-term risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
• HOMA Test for Insulin Resistance: To assess insulin resistance levels.

PCOS and Pregnancy: Risk of Hypertension

Gestational Hypertension: This is pregnancy-induced hypertension where blood pressure is elevated after the 20th week of pregnancy. This can reduce blood flow to the placenta, limiting oxygen and nutrient supply to the baby, and increasing the risk of complications like preeclampsia.

Preeclampsia is a serious pregnancy complication characterized by high blood pressure and organ damage, such as to the kidneys and liver. Untreated, it can lead to eclampsia, causing seizures and potentially being fatal.

Solution: Regularly monitor blood pressure and follow your doctor's recommendations to manage this condition, which may include lifestyle changes or medications.

PCOS and Pregnancy: Risk of Preterm Birth

Women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) have an increased risk of preterm birth (before 37 weeks of pregnancy) due to several factors related to the hormonal and metabolic imbalances characteristic of this condition. Insulin resistance, high levels of chronic inflammation, and hormonal imbalances, particularly excess androgens, can affect placental health and trigger preterm labor. PCOS is also associated with an increased risk of gestational hypertension and preeclampsia, sometimes requiring early delivery to protect the health of the mother and baby. Preexisting health issues, such as obesity, are more common in women with PCOS and can also increase the risk of complications and preterm birth.

PCOS and Pregnancy: What Strategy?

• Adopt a Healthy Lifestyle: A balanced diet and appropriate physical activity are essential before and during pregnancy. Focus on low glycemic index foods, avoid refined sugars, and consume quality proteins.

• Take the Right Supplements: Choose an appropriate multivitamin before and during pregnancy.