PCOS stands for polycystic ovarian syndrome. According to the Mayo Clinic, PCOS is the most common hormonal disorder among menstruating women, and it can cause fertility challenges. It is still possible, however, for women with PCOS to get pregnant. When they do, the symptoms of pregnancy are no different than usual. However, women with PCOS are at a higher risk for miscarriage and other pregnancy complications.
Missed Period
A missed period is often the first indication that a woman is pregnant. However, the American Pregnancy Association reports that women with PCOS have irregular periods and may miss cycles even when they are not pregnant. Because of this, a missed period alone may not signal a pregnancy in a woman with PCOS. For these women, the only way to be certain whether missing a cycle is a symptom of pregnancy is to take a pregnancy test, especially if there are no other symptoms present.
Nausea
Nausea, one of the first noticeable pregnancy symptoms, may begin as early as a few weeks after conception. A woman with PCOS who has missed her period and is feeling unusually nauseous could be pregnant. Nausea and vomiting in pregnancy are common and are caused by the hormonal changes that take place in a woman's body after conception. Though it is often called "morning sickness," pregnancy-related nausea may be present at any time in the day.
Cramping
Some women experience cramping sensations early in pregnancy. According to the Mayo Clinic, this may be as early as a few weeks after conception. Though this cramping comes from the uterus, it is different than the pelvic pain that may accompany some cases of PCOS. Cramping associated with early pregnancy is caused by the fertilized egg attaching itself to the uterine wall. It may be accompanied by light spotting or bleeding, and it is usually short-lived.
Sore Breasts
Breast tenderness is caused by hormonal changes in a pregnant woman's body, and, according to the Mayo Clinic, it may begin as early as a few weeks after conception. During pregnancy, the milk ducts in the breasts begin to prepare for the baby's arrival and can cause the breasts to feel much heavier. They may also change in appearance; the nipples may darken and widen.
Weight Gain
After a few months of pregnancy, weight gain starts to occur. However, a sudden or rapid weight gain during pregnancy can be a sign of a complication. According to the Mayo Clinic, women with PCOS have a greater risk for developing gestational diabetes as well as pregnancy-induced high blood pressure. Both conditions can cause a more rapid weight gain than expected for any other pregnancy. Women with PCOS should monitor their weight gain and alert their doctor of any unusual changes.
