PCOS is one of the most common causes of infertility in women. It has an impact on hormonal balance and overall reproductive health. But with certain diet changes and medical treatment many women suffering from PCOS can increase fertility.
In this blog, we will discuss reasons for infertility in PCOS, symptoms and the best way to enhance fertility chances.
What is PCOS and How Does It Affect Fertility?
PCOS is a hormonal imbalance that affects your ovaries. PCOS causes irregular periods, increased levels of androgens (male hormones). These problems making it difficult to conceive.
How PCOS Affects Fertility
Irregular ovulation — Many women with PCOS also experience irregular or absent ovulation, making it more difficult to get pregnant.
Hormonal imbalance – Increased testosterone and blood insulin levels are dysregulating the reproductive axis.
Poor egg quality – Due to hormonal imbalances, the quality of eggs released during ovulation may be poor.
Endometrial issues – The uterine lining sometimes does not develop adequately, and an implanted fertilized egg may find it hard to latch on.
The following signs may indicate difficulties with conception:
Irregular or missed periods
Abnormal hair growth (hirsutism) on the face, chest or back
Acne and oily skin
Elevated waist circumference, specifically in the abdominal area
Thinning hair or hair loss
Difficulty losing weight
Dark skin spots (acanthosis nigricans)
Depressive symptoms, anxiety or mood swings
If you have PCOS, diagnosing and managing it early can help improve your chances of conceiving. Now, let’s take a look at how you can increase fertility naturally.
10 Ways to Boost Fertility with PCOS
Maintain a Healthy Weight
Increased weight may also complicate several symptoms of PCOS, and can reduce chances of conception. Even a small reduction in body weight is beneficial for the regulation of menstrual cycles and promotes ovulation (5–10%).
Diet: Adhere to a balanced diet that includes whole foods, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
Steer clear of processed foods, refined sugars, and high-carb diets.
Get regular exercise, both cardio and strength training.
Follow a PCOS-Friendly Diet
A PCOS diet designed strategically can work wonders to stabilize insulin levels and naturally cure this disorder.
Eat low-glycemic index (GI) foods such as whole grain foods, legumes and vegetables.
Incorporate lean protein options such as fish, chicken, and tofu.
Eat healthy fats from avocados, nuts, seeds and olive oil.
Limit consumption of sugary beverages, ultra-processed-ready platters, and fried dishes.
Regulate Blood Sugar Levels
Women with PCOS often become resistant to insulin, which can inhibit ovulation. Regulating blood sugar can be tremendously helpful for fertility.
Stay away from high sugar, high carbohydrate foods.
Keep hydrating by drinking lots of water.
Explore intermittent fasting, ideally with medical supervision.
Add insulin-sensitizing supplements such as inositol and berberine (with a doctor’s approval).
Manage Stress Levels
Elevated stress causes hormonal imbalances and affects ovulation. That’s where relaxation techniques come in.
Stretch it out with yoga and meditation to manage stress hormones.
Rest and indulge in hobbies that you enjoy.
Get enough sleep (7-9 hours a night) for proper hormone balance.
Fertility-boosting supplement
Some vitamins and minerals may help reproductive health.
Inositol – Regulates insulin and enhances ovulation.
Vitamin D – Balances hormones and improves egg quality.
Omega-3 fatty acids – Decrease inflammation and promote reproductive health.
Folic acid Key for a healthy pregnancy and fetal growth
Track Ovulation
Knowing your ovulation cycle can better your chances of conception.
Track hormone surges with ovulation predictor kits (OPKs).
Use BBT to track ovulation patterns
Please note changes in cervical mucus where fertile days are indicated.
Limit Caffeine and Alcohol
Excessive caffeine and alcohol may affect fertility.
Cut coffee to one cup a day.
Stay away from too much alcohol.
Drink herbal teas, and water, throughout the day.
Explore Medical Treatments for Infertility due to PCOS
If lifestyle changes are insufficient, medical treatments may be needed.
Metformin – Regulates insulin levels and improves ovulation.
Medications that stimulate ovulation – Clomid or Letrozole
Gonadotropins – Hormones injected to release eggs.
Vitro fertilization (IVF) – A reproductive biotechnology for couples who cannot conceive naturally.
To have a good relationship with your partner
As if infertility is not stressful enough. Open lines of communication and emotional support are crucial.
Discuss your feelings and worries with your partner.
Seek therapy or support groups to get help with your emotional health
Discussion With A Fertility Specialist
See a fertility doctor if you’ve been trying to conceive for more than a year and haven’t succeeded.
Do a comprehensive hormone panel test.
Focusing on fertility-enhancing underlying condition.
Explore treatment options that are right for you.
Conclusion
Infertility due to PCOS is not easy to deal with, but it should not be the end of your dreams. Healthy choices, insulin regulation and medical advice can increase your odds of conception. Remember to be patient, positive, and proactive in your fertility journey.
If you’ve dealt with fertility issues due to PCOS, please share your experience in the comments below. Your story may be the inspiration and help others need!