pcos pregnancy
If you have PCOS, you might be wondering if you can get pregnant and if so, which symptoms you might experience during pregnancy. We’ve put together a helpful list of common PCOS pregnancy symptoms, along with everything else you need to know about the condition and pregnancy.

What is PCOS?

Also known as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome or Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, PCOS is a common hormonal disorder that affects people with ovaries. This tends to occur during reproductive years.

When someone has PCOS, the androgen hormone levels (male hormones) are typically high, cysts often appear on the ovaries, and periods tend to be either infrequent or last for several days.

Becoming pregnant can also become difficult as a result of hormonal imbalances, but it is still possible to conceive despite having the condition. Some individuals might be tempted to receive IVF treatments (In Vitro Fertilization) with a fertility specialist or by using a reproductive medicine. However, it’s critical to address the underlying health issue in order for the body to be ready to conceive.

PCOS Pregnancy Symptoms

It’s possible to get pregnant with PCOS when the correct approach to treatment is used. Oftentimes, a variety of treatments are needed. If you do become pregnant with PCOS, there can be a wide variety of symptoms including but not limited to:
  • Polycystic Ovaries (small cysts known as follicles on the ovaries)
  • Acne
  • Excessive Hair Growth
  • Rapid Weight Gain
  • Insulin Resistance (leading to higher levels of insulin in the bloodstream)
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Chronic Inflammation (affecting the lining of the uterus and the body as a whole)
  • Pelvic Pain

There can also be a higher risk of miscarriage and increased risk of complications during pregnancy, labor, and delivery. Some people don’t realize they have PCOS until they become pregnant.

Symptoms of PCOS outside of pregnancy can include but are not limited to:

  • Infertility (due to irregular or absent ovulation)
  • Irregular Menstrual Cycles
  • Polycystic Ovaries
  • Acne
  • Excessive Hair Growth
  • Rapid Weight Gain
  • Insulin Resistance
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Chronic Inflammation
  • Pelvic Pain

Early Signs of Pregnancy with PCOS

The below symptoms can potentially indicate a pregnancy. However, it’s always best to take a pregnancy test if you suspect you might be pregnant:
  • Missed periods or lighter periods (although this can be difficult to identify with PCOS)
  • Breast tenderness
  • Fatigue
  • Increased urination
  • Nausea or morning sickness
  • Mood swings
  • Depression
  • Cramping or spotting

PCOS and Breast-Feeding

It’s generally safe to breastfeed with PCOS. This is also true if you are on insulin medication. Make sure to consult with your doctor on any questions you have related to breast-feeding with PCOS.
breast feeding

How Do You Test for PCOS?

If you suspect you might have PCOS or are experiencing any of the previously mentioned symptoms, it’s important to receive an evaluation from a medical professional. They can help determine the root cause of your symptoms through a variety of testing methods:

  • Taking your medical history and conducting a symptom assessment (including any menstrual irregularities)
  • Conducting a physical exam (including checking your body mass index)
  • Pelvic ultrasound to detect ovarian cysts or follicles
  • Blood tests to check your hormone levels (including LH, FSH, testosterone, and insulin)
  • Blood glucose tests
  • Thyroid function tests
The above innovative testing is important for confirming if you have PCOS. It also enables your fertility specialist to determine where to apply specific treatments.

Tips For a PCOS Pregnancy

If you have PCOS and become pregnant, there is a higher risk of complications during the pregnancy and during the delivery. Here are a few things you can do to increase your chances of having a healthy pregnancy and baby:
  • Be proactive and schedule an appointment with a specialist who can guide you throughout your pregnancy with PCOS.
  • Regularly monitor your blood pressure as this is essential to prevent high blood pressure-related pregnancy complications.
  • Maintain a healthy diet to manage inflammation and to ensure healthy blood glucose levels
  • Manage any irregular menstrual cycles/irregular periods to help identify early pregnancy symptoms.
  • Regular prenatal care is recommended for pregnant women with PCOS to detect and manage gestational diabetes.

What is the Treatment for PCOS?

If you are diagnosed with PCOS, treatment with a functional and holistic fertility specialist will often include a combination of treatments. Each person receives a specific plan based on their needs, which can include:
  • Nutritional Therapy (oral or IV)
  • Neural Therapy
  • Peptides
  • Herbs
  • Minerals
  • Coaching and Education
  • Dietary Guidance
  • Ongoing Support (to ensure you are correctly following the treatment plan)
  • Weight loss programming when needed
During your first appointment, your fertility specialist will listen to your concerns, conduct a medical history, and perform a whole-body energy scan with your consent. If PCOS is suspected, testing will be collected and treatment can begin.

PCOS Treatment with Road to Fertility

Road to Fertility specializes in functional medicine for fertility issues, including for those with PCOS. Dr. Yuabova Marina, DNP, APRN, BC, Naturopathic Doctor and her compassionate team treat infertility with natural treatments that work in harmony with your body. We approach infertility caused by PCOS by combining functional medicine with quantum energy and quantum diagnostics, which are turned into healing energies.
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