PCOS and fertility – how you can increase your chances of getting pregnant

Many women with PCOS experience irregular cycles and challenges with getting pregnant. PCOS affects ovulation and hormonal balance, but most women can still achieve pregnancy – either naturally or with support from lifestyle changes, supplements and treatment.

What is PCOS and why does it affect fertility?

PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) is a hormonal condition where the ovaries produce several small follicles that often do not mature into ovulation. This can result in:

• Irregular periods
• Infrequent or absent ovulation
• Elevated levels of androgens (male hormones)

When ovulation is irregular, it becomes harder to identify the most fertile days and therefore to conceive.

Read more in our guide: PCOS symptoms and what you can do to get pregnant

How can you increase your chances of pregnancy with PCOS?

Although PCOS can make it harder to conceive, there are several methods that may support fertility:

Track your cycle

• Ovulation tests: Detect the LH surge before ovulation. Note that they may not work for all women with PCOS, as some have elevated LH levels throughout the cycle, leading to false positives.
• Basal body temperature (BBT): Measuring your temperature daily can confirm whether ovulation has taken place. This method may be more reliable than ovulation tests for women with PCOS.

Read more about the temperature method here

Lifestyle and diet in PCOS

• Focus on stable blood sugar levels through diet. Read more about the KISS diet that may support fertility
• Exercise and weight regulation can have a positive effect on the cycle
• Pay attention to stress and sleep, as both influence hormonal balance

Supplements

Several supplements are used in relation to PCOS and fertility, including:

• Inositol
• Chromium
• Omega-3
• B vitamins

Read more in our article PCOS and fertility – supplements that may support your cycle

Find our selection of supplements that support fertility in women with PCOS

Products that can support fertility with PCOS

At Gravidtid you will find products that may help you track your cycle and optimize your chances of pregnancy, even if your cycle is unstable due to irregular periods:

• Ovulation tests and strips
• Thermometers for BBT tracking
• Supplements targeting cycle and fertility

Find our fertility support products for PCOS here

Guides and knowledge about PCOS and fertility

If you want to learn more, read our articles:

• PCOS symptoms and what you can do to get pregnant
• How to test for ovulation
• Can you get pregnant with an irregular cycle?

Frequently asked questions about PCOS and fertility

Can you get pregnant with PCOS?

Yes, many women with PCOS do become pregnant – both naturally and with medical help. It often requires more patience and a focused effort to identify fertile days, since cycles may be irregular and ovulation less frequent.

Why is ovulation irregular with PCOS?

PCOS affects hormonal balance, so eggs do not always mature and release. This leads to irregular or absent ovulation.

Do supplements help with PCOS and fertility?

Some supplements such as inositol, chromium and omega-3 are used by women with PCOS, but effects can vary. It is always a good idea to consult a doctor or healthcare professional.

Which tests can I use if I have PCOS?

Ovulation tests and basal body temperature tracking can be useful tools – even if ovulation is more irregular.