Fertility and PCOS: What You Should Know to Boost Your Chances

Harikrishnan Varieth

For most women, motherhood is one of the greatest blessings, a profound experience that brings not only a new life into the world but also a sense of rebirth for the mother herself. However, for many women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), this dream can feel distant and out of reach. The challenges of PCOS infertility can seem overwhelming, but with the right guidance, starting from an early diagnosis to proper management, this dream can indeed become a reality. With the right support and approach, many women with PCOS successfully navigate their fertility journey and embrace the joys of motherhood.

PCOS and Ovulation: What’s the Deal?

For women with PCOS, the biggest obstacle to getting pregnant with PCOS is irregular ovulation. Ovulation is essential for pregnancy, as it allows the release of eggs for fertilisation. Women with PCOS often have irregular or absent ovulation due to hormonal imbalances. This can make PCOS pregnancy harder to achieve, but it is not out of reach with the right interventions. 

Can You Get Pregnant with PCOS? Absolutely!

Yes, you can! While PCOS infertility can make conception more difficult, many women with PCOS successfully conceive with the right guidance and treatments. Here are key factors that can help you improve your chances of getting pregnant with PCOS: 

• Lifestyle Adjustments: A healthy diet and regular exercise are essential to improve PCOS and fertility. These changes help regulate ovulation and balance hormones. 

• Medications: Fertility drugs like Clomiphene or Letrozole can help to stimulate ovulation in women struggling with PCOS infertility. 

• Advanced Fertility Treatments: For severe cases, procedures like In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) may increase the chances of a successful PCOS pregnancy. 

How to Boost Fertility with PCOS: Your Game Plan

Managing your PCOS infertility starts with making sustainable lifestyle changes that can improve your overall health and fertility. Here’s how you can take control: 

• Focus on a PCOS-Friendly Diet

Eating the right foods helps balance hormones, regulate insulin, and boost fertility. Here are key tips: 

• Eat Whole Grains: Brown rice, oats, and quinoa help control blood sugar. 

• Include Fiber-Rich Foods: Vegetables, fruits, and legumes improve insulin regulation. 

• Consume Lean Proteins: Opt for plant-based proteins or lean meats to support metabolism. 

• Add Healthy Fats: Omega-3s from fatty fish, chia seeds, and walnuts reduce inflammation. 

• Limit Sugars: Avoid refined carbs and sugary snacks to prevent insulin spikes. 

• Exercise to Boost Fertility

Regular physical activity helps improve insulin sensitivity, manage weight, and regulate hormones. The right kind of exercise can enhance your chances of getting pregnant with PCOS: 

Strength Training: Squats, lunges, and light weights build muscle, burn fat, and regulate hormones. 

Cardio: Low-impact exercises like walking, swimming, or cycling boost heart health and burn calories. 

Yoga/Pilates: Reduces stress, improves flexibility, and strengthens the core. 

HIIT: Short, intense bursts of exercise enhance metabolism and insulin sensitivity3. Manage Stress Effectively 

• Manage Stress Effectively

Stress can worsen PCOS symptoms and affect your fertility. Here are some strategies to manage stress effectively: 

• Meditation and Breathing Exercises: These can help calm your mind and regulate stress hormones, making it easier to manage PCOS. 

• Adequate Sleep: Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep per night to support hormone balance and overall health. 

• Time in Nature: Walking or spending time outdoors can reduce stress and improve mood, which can benefit your overall health and fertility. 

FAQs about PCOS and Fertility

Q: Can PCOS go away after pregnancy?

A: No, PCOS is a lifelong condition, but symptoms may improve after pregnancy. 

Q: How long does it take to conceive with PCOS?

A: It varies, but many women conceive within a year of starting treatment. 

Q: Is weight loss necessary for getting pregnant with PCOS?

A: Yes, even a small amount of weight loss can improve hormone balance and ovulation. 

Q: Can PCOS affect pregnancy?

A: Yes, women with PCOS are at higher risk of complications like gestational diabetes, but with proper care, healthy pregnancies are common. 

Q: Is IVF the only solution for PCOS infertility?

A: No, many women conceive with lifestyle changes or medications before needing IVF. 

Take Action Now: Improve Your Fertility with MyTatva!

Managing PCOS and boosting your fertility can feel overwhelming, but every small change brings you closer to achieving your dream of motherhood. Stay committed and keep making healthy choices. Watch this space for more tips on living a balanced lifestyle. For personalised support, download the MyTatva app, where you’ll find customised diet and exercise plans, progress tracking, and expert advice to help manage PCOS and improve your fertility. For more details, call us at +91 99740 42363 or email  support@tatvacare.in

Medically reviewed by

Dr. Dhvni Lalan

BPTh, PGDHA