Trying to get pregnant with PCOS: What you need to know

If you’ve got Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and are hoping to start a family, you might be wondering how it affects your chances of getting pregnant. Don’t worry – at Care Fertility, we’re here to help you feel seen, heard, and supported every step of the way. Let’s break down how PCOS impacts fertility and what treatments can help you achieve your dream of becoming a parent. 

How PCOS affects fertility 

PCOS can make it a bit tricky to get pregnant. The main issue is that PCOS often messes with ovulation – that’s when your ovaries release an egg. Many women with PCOS have irregular or absent periods, which means they might not be ovulating regularly. Without regular ovulation, timing intercourse for conception can be challenging. 

Here’s how PCOS might affect your fertility: 

1. Irregular ovulation: If your ovaries aren’t releasing eggs regularly, it can be tough to figure out the best time for conception. 

1. Hormonal imbalances: High levels of androgens (male hormones) and insulin resistance can also impact your fertility. 

1. Ovarian cysts: While having cysts on your ovaries is a common feature of PCOS, it’s the irregular ovulation that mostly affects fertility. 

Treatments to boost your chances of getting pregnant 

Even though PCOS can make things a bit more complicated, there are plenty of treatments and strategies that can help improve your chances of getting pregnant: 

Track your cycle: Keeping track of your cycle can help you understand your ovulation patterns. Ovulation predictor kits and basal body temperature tracking can be handy tools. ~

Healthy lifestyle: Maintaining a healthy weight, eating well, and staying active can help regulate your cycle and support ovulation.  Read our blog on how your weight can affect your fertility here.

Medications:
Clomifene (Clomid): This medication helps stimulate ovulation and is often used for women with PCOS. 

• Metformin: Used for insulin resistance, metformin can help regulate your cycle and improve ovulation. 

• Letrozole: Another option for stimulating ovulation, especially if Clomid doesn’t work for you. 
  
  

• Intrauterine Insemination (IUI): This procedure involves placing sperm directly into the uterus to increase the chances of fertilisation. 

• In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF): IVF involves retrieving eggs from your ovaries, fertilising them in the lab, and then transferring the embryos to your uterus.
  
  

Lifestyle Changes: Improving insulin sensitivity with diet and exercise can also help support regular ovulation and menstrual cycles. 

When to seek help 

If you’ve been trying to get pregnant for a while (a year or more) and haven’t had much luck, it might be time to chat with a fertility specialist. At Care Fertility, we offer thorough evaluations and personalised plans to help you on your journey. We know dealing with PCOS and trying to conceive can be stressful, so we’re here to provide the support and expertise you need. 

We're here to help 

Navigating the complexities of PCOS and fertility can feel overwhelming, but Care Fertility is here to support you every step of the way. Our team of experts will work with you to understand your condition, explore your options, and develop a treatment plan that gives you the best chance of achieving a healthy pregnancy. Whether you're just starting your journey or have been trying for some time, we’re committed to helping you feel hopeful and empowered. 

Real stories, real hope 

Hearing from others who have faced similar challenges can be incredibly reassuring. Read Ruth’s story, where she shares her journey with PCOS and IVF at Care Fertility. Her experience highlights the importance of seeking help early and how personalised care can make all the difference. 

Next steps: Speak to your GP or a fertility specialist 

If you suspect you have PCOS or have been trying to conceive without success, the first step is to gather as much information as possible about your condition. Speak to your GP or a fertility specialist, and provide them with details about your menstrual cycle, any PCOS symptoms, and how long you’ve been trying to conceive. This information will be crucial in developing a targeted and effective treatment plan. For more information on how to get started, including understanding the NHS referral process, read our guide. Reach out to Care Fertility today – we’re here to help you on your path to parenthood.