If you’ve been diagnosed with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), you’ve likely felt the challenge of confusion, frustration, and maybe even self-doubt that can come with it.
The American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) defines PCOS as “a widespread hormonal condition impacting about 5-10% of people assigned female at birth. PCOS presents as a group of symptoms that can vary from person to person. Common symptoms include irregular menstrual cycles, weight changes, increased body or facial hair, acne, and fertility challenges.”*
Most importantly, it can disrupt ovulation—the monthly release of an egg—which is why many people only discover they have PCOS when they start trying to conceive.
It’s easy to feel discouraged, but here’s the truth: you are not powerless. With the right guidance, science, and medical support, there are clear ways to improve fertility and move closer to building the family you’ve been dreaming of.
At NewLIFE Fertility, we believe fertility care should never make you feel like just a set of symptoms. It should remind you that you’re strong, resilient, and capable of taking small, meaningful steps toward a future full of possibility.
How PCOS Affects Fertility
PCOS affects up to 5-10% of people of reproductive age.* The condition disrupts normal hormone balance—often increasing levels of insulin and androgens (male hormones)—which can interfere with regular ovulation. Without predictable ovulation, it becomes more difficult for sperm and egg to meet naturally.
But while PCOS can make conception more challenging, it does not make it impossible. Many individuals conceive naturally or with simple, supportive treatments once the right plan is in place. According to the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM), lifestyle and metabolic care are key components of improving fertility outcomes and overall well-being.*
Support Healthy Ovulation
For many people diagnosed with PCOS, improving ovulation is the first—and most important—step toward pregnancy. Your care team may recommend:
- Cycle tracking
- Hormone testing
- Ovulation-inducing medications
- Addressing insulin resistance
Each small improvement in ovulation brings you one step closer to your goal.
Nurture Your Body Through Lifestyle Choices
When living with PCOS, your body often responds best to gentle consistency rather than drastic change. Nutrition, movement, and stress care are all powerful tools that can help restore rhythm to your cycle.
Move regularly:
Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity weekly—think walking, dancing, yoga, or swimming. Exercise improves insulin sensitivity and hormone balance. Start small; 10-15 minutes of movement can be more powerful than you think.
Eat to fuel, not restrict:
Focus on fiber-rich vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats. Limiting processed sugars can help stabilize blood sugar levels.
Find calm where you can:
Stress hormones can interfere with ovulation. Try deep breathing, meditation, gentle yoga, or simply taking quiet moments to recharge.
Even modest changes can support more regular ovulation and improve overall fertility outcomes.
Explore Fertility Treatment Options
If lifestyle changes and ovulation support aren’t enough, fertility treatments can offer the next step, including:
Intrauterine Insemination (IUI):
Specially prepared sperm are placed directly into the uterus during ovulation to boost the chances of fertilization.
In Vitro Fertilization (IVF):
Eggs and specially prepared sperm are combined in a laboratory before transferring a healthy embryo into the uterus.
Both options are highly personalized, and your fertility specialist will help you choose a treatment that feels right for you—based on your age, hormone levels, comfort level and family building goals.
Care for Your Emotional Health
Living with PCOS can bring an emotional weight that deserves attention, too. You might feel discouraged by irregular cycles or disheartened by past attempts to conceive. Those feelings are completely valid—and you don’t have to face them alone.
Connecting with a counselor or support group can make a world of difference. PCOS Challenge, The National PCOS Association, offers a community of people just like you who live with PCOS. At NewLIFE Fertility, we see the emotional side of this journey as just as important as the medical one. Here, your feelings are heard, respected, and cared for.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get pregnant if I have PCOS?
Yes. Many people with PCOS conceive by tracking ovulation and supporting hormone balance through nutrition, physical activity, and lifestyle adjustments. However, there are many people with PCOS who need assistance from fertility treatments like IUI and IVF. Both ways of conceiving are perfectly valid.
How long should I try to conceive on my own before seeking help?
If your cycles are irregular or you’ve been trying to conceive for six months without success (or three months if you’re 35 and older), it’s a good time to reach out to a fertility specialist for guidance.
Does weight loss always improve fertility?
Not always. While a small, steady reduction in body weight can improve hormone balance for some, fertility improvements can happen at any size through personalized care and treatment.
Hope Starts Here
Learning how to improve fertility with PCOS is about understanding your body—not fighting against it. Every small change, every conversation, and every act of self-care brings you closer to the life you’ve envisioned.
At NewLIFE Fertility, you’ll find more than medical answers—you’ll find a team that believes in your journey, honors your emotions, and helps you take each step with courage and compassion.
Reach out today to schedule your consultation and start rewriting what’s possible.
*Source: reproductivefacts.org
**Source: ASRM
