How PCOS affects fertility

The main way PCOS affects fertility is through irregular or absent ovulation. If you're not ovulating regularly, there are fewer opportunities to conceive, and it's harder to time things. This is the core issue for most women with PCOS who are trying to fall pregnant.

It's worth emphasising that PCOS does not mean you can't have children. Many women with PCOS conceive naturally, and many more with some support.

What helps

For women who are overweight, even modest weight loss (5 to 10 per cent of body weight) can restore more regular ovulation and improve the chance of conceiving. Managing insulin resistance — through diet, activity and sometimes metformin — can help too.

If regular ovulation doesn't return, medications that induce ovulation are often very effective and are usually the next step, prescribed and monitored by a doctor. Some women go on to see a fertility specialist, but many conceive before that point.

Getting the timing right

If you have PCOS and are planning a pregnancy, it's worth seeing a GP early rather than waiting the usual 12 months. They can arrange pre-conception care (including folate and general health checks), help you track ovulation, and start investigations or referral sooner if needed.

A telehealth consult is a good way to make a plan tailored to your cycle and goals, and to know when to seek further help.

Related condition

PCOS →

References & sources