Getting Pregnant with PCOS: A Comprehensive Guide

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common causes of infertility, affecting up to 10% of women. But here is the good news: having PCOS does not mean you can't get pregnant. It just means you might need a slightly different roadmap.

The PCOS Challenge: Anovulation

The main fertility hurdle with PCOS is that you may not ovulate (release an egg) regularly. Without an egg, sperm has nothing to fertilize. This leads to long, irregular cycles.

4 Steps to Boost Fertility with PCOS

1. Balance Blood Sugar (The Diet Connection)

Many women with PCOS have insulin resistance. High insulin levels trigger the ovaries to make more testosterone, which blocks ovulation. A low-glycemic, high-protein diet can work wonders.

2. Track What Matters

Since your cycles are irregular, calendar apps won't work. Focus on tracking Cervical Mucus (CM) and Basal Body Temperature (BBT). CM tells you when you might be fertile, and BBT confirms if you actually ovulated.

3. Supplements & Medications

• **Inositol:** Often called "nature's metformin," it helps improve insulin sensitivity and egg quality.
• **Metformin:** A prescription drug that helps lower insulin.
• **Letrozole/Clomid:** Medications that stimulate ovulation.

4. Manage Stress

High cortisol (stress hormone) exacerbates PCOS symptoms. Yoga, sleep, and mindfulness aren't just "feel good" tips—they are medical necessities for hormonal balance.