PCOS and Fertility

PCOS and Fertility

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) affects 1 in 10 people with ovaries of reproductive age. PCOS is one of the most common causes of infertility. While scientists don’t yet know the exact cause, both genetics and lifestyle seem to play a role. PCOS can cause symptoms like irregular menstrual cycles, acne, unwanted hair growth, weight changes, and infertility.

PCOS is a hormone disorder that causes an imbalance of hormones. This imbalance disrupts the delicate system responsible for the menstrual cycle, ovulation, and fertility.

The good news? Nutrition and lifestyle choices can help manage PCOS symptoms and support fertility.

(As you read, you’ll notice references to upcoming articles. When they’re published, we’ll link them here — if you’re signed up for Food & Fertility Insights, they’ll land directly in your inbox.)

PCOS Hormones: From Cycles to Symptoms

Insulin Resistance: About 65-70% of people with PCOS have insulin resistance. This means the body doesn’t use insulin very well. When this happens, blood sugar can become high and the body makes more insulin to compensate. High insulin levels cause the body to produce more androgens ("male" hormones). Higher levels of insulin can also lead to food cravings and weight gain.

Androgens: (“male” hormones) are often elevated in PCOS. They can interfere with ovulation and contribute to acne or unwanted hair growth.

LH and FSH: FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone) helps the egg (ovum) grow and mature while LH (luteinizing hormone) triggers its release during ovulation. In PCOS, these signals can be out of balance, which may disrupt egg development and lead to irregular ovulation and infrequent or absent menstrual cycles.

Living With PCOS: Daily Challenges

Food cravings that feel impossible to ignore. See our upcoming article: Food Cravings with PCOS.

Frustration with weight management. PCOS can make it more tricky to maintain or lose weight. Explore our upcoming article:Why Weight Loss is Hard with PCOS to learn why and gain practical tips on how to meet your goals.

Confusion around meals. To learn more about PCOS & Fertility Friendly Diet see our upcoming articles: What Does a PCOS-Friendly Breakfast Look Like?, Quick PCOS-Friendly Lunch Ideas, Easy Dinner Ideas for Hormone Balance, PCOS & Fertility Friendly Plate and PCOS Grocery Guide.

Fertility worries and uncertainty about timelines. See our upcoming articles: Can You Get Pregnant with PCOS Naturally? and Tracking Ovulation with PCOS to better understand your cycle and optimize the chance of conception.

Managing PCOS to Improve Fertility

Food as a Foundation

Nutrition can help manage PCOS and improve fertility. The foods you eat can influence blood sugar, insulin levels, and inflammation. Over time, nourishing meals can help improve these factors and support the delicate balance of hormones that regulate ovulation and fertility.

PCOS & Fertility Friendly meals can help

Food provides the foundation for fertility and hormone health. Food is your body's building blocks for reproductive health and a healthy pregnancy. See our upcoming article: Understanding PCOS: How Diet Influences Fertility.

Stabilize blood sugar and support hormone balance through meals that combine complex carbohydrates, protein, healthy fats, and fiber. See our upcoming article: How Blood Sugar Affects PCOS & Fertility.

Nourish egg health and ovulation with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidant rich whole foods that help protect and strengthen reproductive cells. See our upcoming article: Egg Health and PCOS.

Ease cravings and boost energy by creating meals that leave you satisfied and blood glucose steady throughout the day. See our upcoming article: Food Cravings and PCOS and PCOS & Fertility Friendly Plate.

A Gentle Reminder

PCOS may bring challenges, but every choice you make is an opportunity to support your body and fertility. Small, consistent shifts in nutrition and lifestyle can strengthen hormone balance, boost energy, and bring you closer to your family goals.