Polycystic ovarian syndrome, pregnancy, and infertility are complex subjects involving many considerations and factors. PCOS affects 20% of women of reproductive age and causes painful periods and missed or irregular menstruation cycles. In addition, the syndrome is the leading cause of infertility.
However, various treatment options, such as a diet, birth control pills, PCOS supplements, and fertility medications, can help manage PCOS and allow the affected woman to have a healthy pregnancy.
What Are the Symptoms of PCOS After Pregnancy?
Having a baby doesn’t mean that your PCOS has disappeared. Unfortunately, the condition can affect both the mother and the baby. In menstruating women, it can increase the risk of various complications during the postpartum recovery. That’s why it’s essential to be aware of the signs and symptoms and ensure you have undergone proper screening and surveillance by your doctor. Some of these complications include postpartum depression, thrombotic disease, congestive heart failure, or hypertensive heart disease.
Additionally, PCOS can lower your progesterone levels, decreasing your milk supply. The androgens may also increase and interfere with prolactin, the hormone that drives up milk production. Here are the symptoms of PCOS after pregnancy to look out for:
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Hormonal Imbalance
This is a common side effect for women with PCOS. Your hormonal levels increase when you are pregnant. If you have PCOS, you may find them more out of balance after pregnancy. Progesterone and estrogen levels decrease after you deliver, and your oxytocin levels will rise to compensate for the dropped levels. Over the next few weeks, you will experience mood swings, which stabilize after three months. Those with PCOS may still feel emotionally unstable; this is the time to look out for postpartum depression symptoms.
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Weight Gain
Obesity or being overweight is typically common in women diagnosed with PCOS. After giving birth, watch your weight more closely to prevent it from spiraling out of control. And while it takes longer for women to lose weight after pregnancy, it will be more difficult if you have PCOS.
How to Manage PCOS After Giving Birth?
Managing your PCOS after pregnancy is essential to ensure you have an easier time stabilizing.
1. Rest
Find time to rest and avoid taking everything on by yourself. Develop an open communication with your family and friends and ask for help.
2. Manage Your Stress Levels
Motherhood is fulfilling, exciting, and stressful. One may forget to take care of themselves with so many newfound responsibilities. Often, stress can be a catalyst for PCOS and increase the symptoms. Rest, take a breather now and then, and take care of your hygiene.
3. Proper Nutrition and Diet
To manage your PCOS during pregnancy and after birth, take a diet full of vegetables and fruits. Limit the intake of processed and high-sugared food substances. Focus on eating lean proteins, leafy greens, whole grains, and low-fat dairy.
4. Exercise
Doing rigorous exercises will reduce your weight and manage the symptoms of PCOS. Exercises you can do include kickboxing, Zumba, biking, lifting weights for muscle building, and swimming. Planks and sit-backs will also strengthen your core to enhance your posture and reduce back pain.
Conclusion
PCOS has no treatment, but it can be managed symptomatically. Prioritizing a healthy diet, exercising, and getting adequate rest are some ways you can manage your symptoms at home. Contact your health practitioner if you suspect you are developing postpartum depression or severe PCOS symptoms.
