Trying to Conceive with PCOS: Tips for Success

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal condition that can cause infertility. While it’s still possible to conceive with the condition, you may have to take extra steps to maximize your chances of getting pregnant. Here are some tips for conceiving with PCOS:

1. Take the First Steps

Before trying to conceive, it's important to take certain steps, whether you have PCOS or not. These steps include:

• Having your doctor measure your weight and body mass index (BMI)
• Initiating a healthy diet and exercise plan
• Tracking your period using an ovulation calendar or app
• Checking your blood sugar levels

2. Adopt a Healthy Lifestyle

PCOS can lead to weight gain in some women. Therefore, it’s important to include exercise in your daily routine, such as walking more or using a standing desk at work. Additionally, for any woman trying to conceive, it's crucial to get enough nutrients. Try replacing sugary foods and unhealthy fats with fruits and vegetables, whole grains, beans and lentils, lean meats, and fish. It can also be beneficial to supplement with vitamins that support fertility and healthy fetal development, such as folic acid, vitamin B6, and vitamin B12.

3. Balance Blood Sugar Levels

PCOS can lead to high blood sugar levels or type 2 diabetes, both of which can impact fertility. This is because PCOS changes how your body uses insulin, making it harder for it to do its job. Eating healthy and exercising can improve blood sugar levels. Additionally, your doctor may prescribe medication. 

4. Consider Fertility Medications

With PCOS, hormone imbalances can make it difficult to track ovulation. Your doctor may suggest prescription medications like birth control pills, metformin, Clomid, or other fertility medications to help regulate your hormones and improve your chances of conceiving.

5. Have a Backup Plan

While the above tips can help improve fertility, it's important to note that there's no guarantee you'll conceive. It's good to have a backup plan if you can't conceive naturally. You may want to meet with a fertility specialist to explore options such as intrauterine insemination (IUI), in vitro fertilization (IVF), or other assisted reproductive technologies (ART).

Learn More About Conceiving with PCOS

PCOS may make natural conception challenging. However, maintaining a healthy diet, exercising, balancing blood sugars, taking medications, and exploring ART can improve your chances of getting pregnant. At The Prelude Network^®, each of the fertility clinics in our network offers advanced treatment options and patient care to anyone aspiring to become a parent, including those with PCOS. Contact us today for more information or to schedule an appointment with a fertility specialist near you.