Polycystic ovary syndrome and gestational weight gain

Women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) have a higher risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes. Limited research indicates women with PCOS have a higher preconception body mass index (BMI) and higher gestational weight gain (GWG). There is an association between high BMI at conception and/or excessive GWG and adverse pregnancy outcomes although the extent of this relationship may differ for maternal and infant outcomes in PCOS. Excess weight preconception and excessive GWG are highly related but modifiable risk factors for reproductive outcomes in PCOS. The recommendations for GWG range between 5 and 18 kg, depending on preconception BMI, to minimise adverse pregnancy outcomes in the general population. Women with PCOS should aim for a healthy weight preconception and should avoid exceeding recommended GWG for their preconception BMI category through having a healthy diet and staying physically as active as possible. There are no specific interventions for pregnancy-related weight optimisation in PCOS.