Trying to get pregnant with PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) can feel frustrating and confusing. You might be told to “just lose weight” or “wait and see” while feeling stuck with irregular cycles, acne, mood swings, or sugar cravings. The good news? PCOS fertility challenges are common but manageable - and with the right support, many women go on to conceive naturally.

As a women’s health nutritionist who specialises in PCOS, fertility and hormone health, I’ve supported countless women in improving their cycles, ovulation, and overall wellbeing through personalised nutrition and lifestyle changes. Plus, I have PCOS myself!

In this blog, you’ll learn:

Why PCOS affects fertility
What you can do to support ovulation naturally
3 key nutrition strategies to focus on
The best supplements for PCOS fertility
When to seek extra support

PCOS pregnant woman — **How Does PCOS Affect Fertility?**

PCOS is a hormonal condition that affects how your ovaries function. The main issue for fertility is that PCOS often disrupts **regular ovulation**, so if you're not releasing an egg each cycle, it’s harder to conceive.
Some key fertility-related PCOS symptoms include:
Irregular or missing periods
Long cycles or unpredictable ovulation
High androgens (which may cause acne or excess hair)
Insulin resistance
Poor egg quality in some cases
The great news? With the right **diet, supplements, and support**, your cycle can often be regulated, ovulation restored, and fertility improved, naturally.

3 Nutrition Strategies to Support PCOS Fertility

1. Balance Blood Sugar

Blood sugar imbalances drive insulin resistance, which worsens PCOS symptoms and disrupts ovulation. Focus on:

Protein with every meal (e.g. eggs, fish, lentils)
High-fibre carbs (sweet potato, oats, quinoa, berries)
Healthy fats (avocado, olive oil, seeds)
Avoiding ultra-processed snacks and sugary drinks

Balanced blood sugar = better hormone balance + improved ovulation.

2. Support Inflammation and Gut Health

PCOS is often linked to low-grade inflammation, which can impact hormone function and egg quality. To support gut and immune health:

Eat 7+ portions of colourful vegetables daily
Include fermented foods (sauerkraut, kefir, miso)
Reduce processed foods and industrial seed oils
Stay hydrated and eat mindfully

3. Prioritise Nutrient Density

Your body needs key nutrients to make and regulate hormones. Important foods include:

Leafy greens, berries, and cruciferous veg (like broccoli)
Wild salmon and sardines for omega-3s
Seeds (especially flax and pumpkin) for hormone support
Liver or eggs for B vitamins and choline

Best Supplements for PCOS Fertility

Every woman is different, but here are a few research-backed supplements commonly used to support PCOS and fertility:

1. Myo-Inositol & D-Chiro Inositol

These are naturally occurring compounds that support insulin sensitivity and ovulation. Many women with PCOS ovulate more regularly with inositol support.

2. Vitamin D

Low vitamin D is very common in PCOS and linked to poor fertility outcomes. Get tested and supplement if needed.

3. Omega-3 (EPA & DHA)

Helps reduce inflammation, support egg quality, and regulate hormones. Choose a high-quality fish oil or algae-based omega-3 if plant-based.

Always work with a practitioner to personalise your supplement plan, especially when TTC.

Lifestyle Tips to Support Conception with PCOS

Track your cycle with ovulation strips, basal body temperature, or a fertility app
Exercise gently but consistently (strength training, walking, Pilates)
Prioritise sleep—aim for 7–9 hours and good sleep hygiene
Reduce stress with nervous system support like meditation, journaling, or breathwork
Limit alcohol, caffeine, and ultra-processed foods that may trigger symptoms

When to Start Preparing for Pregnancy?

Ideally, start 3–6 months before trying to conceive. This gives your body time to:

Stabilise hormones
Improve egg and uterine lining quality
Regulate your cycle and ovulation
Optimise nutrient stores for a healthy pregnancy

You can get pregnant with PCOS! Getting pregnant with PCOS may require a bit more time and support, but it’s absolutely possible. Many women who’ve been told it “won’t happen naturally” go on to conceive once they address the root causes of their hormone imbalances.

As a women’s health nutritionist, I offer personalised guidance to support your cycle health, ovulation, egg quality, and overall wellbeing - without extremes, stress, or restriction.

Want Support on Your TTC Journey?

If you’re trying to conceive with PCOS and feeling overwhelmed, you don’t have to do this alone.

Book a free introductory call today and let’s talk about how I can help you improve your cycle, support ovulation, and optimise your fertility - naturally.

BOOK A FREE INTRO CALL

Megan Hallett and the content provided are not intended to treat, diagnose, cure or prevent any disease. All material on meganhallett.com is provided for educational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your doctor and/ or another qualified healthcare provider for any questions you have regarding a medical condition, and before undertaking any diet, supplement, exercise or other health-related programs.