PCOS and Fertility: What You Need to Know
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is one of the leading causes of infertility, but having PCOS doesn’t mean you can’t get pregnant. It just means your body needs a bit more support and understanding.
At 18, I was diagnosed with PCOS and told that it would be likely be hard to start a family. I had no periods at all, not even irregular cycles, along with hair loss and stubborn acne. The toll it took on my mental health was huge, so I understand just how overwhelming it can feel living with PCOS. I took it upon myself to not only learn all about managing and essentially reverse my own PCOS symptoms (missing periods included!) but helping others in my position do the same. Not only do I have years of experience working with PCOS, I have it myself and have written a book on the subject too!
Here’s what you need to know to optimise your fertility naturally and confidently.
Why PCOS Affects Fertility
PCOS often causes irregular ovulation or anovulation (not ovulating), making it harder to conceive. This is typically due to hormonal imbalances, especially elevated androgens (like testosterone) and insulin resistance.
Signs You May Not Be Ovulating Regularly:
Irregular cycles (longer than 35 days or unpredictable)
No positive ovulation tests
Acne or excess facial/body hair
Low mood or fatigue around ovulation
Supporting Fertility with PCOS
Remember, everybody is different! Even two women with the same condition will respond differently to lifestyle and nutrition recommendations. What works for someone else, may not work for your unique body. However, across the many women I have supported with PCOS and fertility, these are the foundations I come back to time and time again!
Balance Blood Sugar: A stable blood sugar helps regulate insulin and reduces androgen levels. Focus on high-protein, high-fibre meals with healthy fats.
Track Ovulation: Use basal body temperature and progesterone testing to determine exactly when it your cycle you are ovulating, as this may look different than the standard day 14. LH strips can be helpful for some, but just approach with caution as in PCOS, LH can be naturally elevated.
Reduce Stress: High cortisol impacts ovulation. Try yoga, walks in nature, and nervous system support like magnesium glycinate or ashwagandha.
Key Supplements
Inositol (myo + D-chiro): Supports ovulation
Omega-3: Reduces inflammation
Vitamin D: Crucial for hormone balance and egg quality
Trying to conceive with PCOS can feel overwhelming - but there is hope, and there is help. Your symptoms are real, and with the right support, you can improve your hormone balance, support ovulation, and boost your chances of a healthy pregnancy. As a women’s health nutritionist, I help you take the guesswork out of fertility nutrition with a personalised, sustainable approach. If you’re ready to feel more in control of your body and your journey, I’d love to support you. Book a call to get started.
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.
