Complications during pregnancy are risky for women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). It is the most common hormone disorder in women of reproductive age.  A new study says that women with PCOS are more prone to experience chronic low grade inflammation during pregnancy. Their counterparts who do not suffer polycystic ovary syndrome  are not.

PCOS symptoms include irregular periods, infertility, weight gain, excess hair on face and body. Women with PCOS often exhibit low level inflammation. This state of inflammation worsens during pregnancy, says one of the study’s authors, Stefano Palomba, MD, of the Arcispedale of Santa Maria Nuova of Reggio Emilia in Italy.

The research was conducted on 150 women with PCOS and 150 pregnant women. The biological markers of inflammation were tracked in both of them.

Expectant mothers with PCOS had higher markers of inflammation. It included white blood cell counts and C – reactive protein. “Other studies have identified a connection between inflammation biomarkers and pregnancy complications such as pre-eclampsia and gestational diabetes,” Palomba said.

“The abnormal inflammation seen in women with PCOS may be a factor in the development of these conditions.” He added.

Reference: Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism.