Fertility & Pregnancy10 min read

PCOS and Pregnancy: Risks and Management Strategies

Explore how PCOS affects pregnancy, the associated complications, and strategies to improve outcomes for mother and baby.

What You'll Learn

  • How PCOS increases pregnancy risks
  • Complications such as GDM and preeclampsia
  • Preventive strategies before and during pregnancy
  • Evidence-based clinical recommendations

The Pregnancy-PCOS Connection

While women with PCOS can conceive with or without fertility support, pregnancy outcomes may be more complicated. Studies show increased risk of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), hypertensive disorders, preterm birth, and miscarriage in PCOS pregnancies. These risks are primarily due to underlying metabolic dysfunction, chronic inflammation, and hormonal imbalance.

Key Pregnancy Risks in PCOS

3x

Higher risk of GDM in PCOS pregnancies

2x

Increased risk of preeclampsia

15–30%

Miscarriage rates among PCOS women

Preconception Preparation

Pre-pregnancy planning can reduce risks significantly:

Diagnostic Process

1

Optimize BMI through sustainable lifestyle changes

2

Control blood glucose and insulin resistance

3

Correct vitamin D and folate deficiencies

4

Address thyroid function and inflammation markers

Prenatal Monitoring Strategies

Once pregnant, women with PCOS require closer prenatal monitoring:

Clinical Monitoring

  • Frequent glucose tolerance tests
  • Early screening for preeclampsia
  • Fetal growth ultrasounds
  • Blood pressure and weight tracking

Lifestyle Adaptation

  • Moderate physical activity with OB clearance
  • Low-GI meals to reduce GDM risk
  • Stress management to lower cortisol levels
  • Adequate protein and micronutrient intake

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