Can PCOS Make Me Infertile? An Expert Weighs In...

We're diving into a topic that's close to many hearts, including my own: PCOS and its potential impact on fertility. As a functional wellness doctor who's all about demystifying health issues, let's break it down together with a holistic approach on things...

First off, what the heck is PCOS? PCOS stands for polycystic ovary syndrome, and it's a hormonal issue that is seen in about 1 in 7 women. It is characterized by a combination of symptoms, including irregular menstrual cycles, excess androgen (male hormone) levels, and polycystic ovaries, which are ovaries that may have multiple small follicles. So let me remind you, if you are struggling with PCOS, you aren't in this alone 🩷 If you experience symptoms of PCOS you may notice irregular periods, skin tags, blood sugar issues, fatigue, pesky acne, and sometimes, difficulty getting pregnant.

So, here's the burning question: can PCOS make you infertile? The short answer? Not necessarily. Sure, PCOS can throw an extra hurdle into your baby-making plans, but it doesn't mean you're doomed to a child-free life. Phew, right?

Here's the scoop: PCOS can affect hormone levels causing things like elevated testosterone or insulin causing all sorts of havoc in your body. One of the biggest issues is missed ovulation, which can make it tricky to conceive. But don't worry sis, I got you! There are plenty of ways to work around it.

Here are some ways you can help support your fertility with PCOS...

Lifestyle Tweaks: Eating a balanced diet, getting regular exercise, and managing stress can all help tame PCOS symptoms and improve your chances of getting pregnant. Think of it as giving your body the love and support it needs to do its thing. 🥗🏃‍♀️10 min walks after meals will be your new bestie!

Detoxing your Environment: Healthy living is more than just what you consume but the environment that you live in. Being in a low toxic environment helps balance your hormones and takes control of your health. Eliminate toxins in your environment by burning non toxic candles, using CLEAN cleaning products, and purifying the air you're in. One of my favorite products to ensure I am living in a toxic free environment is the AirDoctor.

And of course you are familiar with fertility treatments such as IVF. But here's the thing: fertility isn't just about popping pills or getting fancy treatments. It's about taking care of your whole self—body, mind, and spirit. So don't forget to make the lifestyle changes, take time for self-care and surround yourself with supportive people. Taking a deep dive and getting to the ROOT of your fertility struggles is also KEY. This could include in depth hormone testing (check out my lab checklist here) as well as gut testing.

At the end of the day, PCOS might throw a few curveballs your way, but it doesn't have to define your fertility journey. With the right support, a little bit of patience, and a whole lot of love, you can bring that bundle of joy into this world.

If you struggle with PCOS and are worried about your fertility or have struggled with infertility, first, I want you to know I see you and I am here for you 🩷 This journey is not easy but just know that you are not alone. The PCOS Doc team is here to support you through healing your body with a holistic approach.

If you want to get started on the path to healing your body, book a discovery call with a member of the PCOS doc team where we will walk through the best approach for YOU!

If you are ready to prepare your body for pregnancy and have struggled with conceiving, I have something extra special for you.

My ultimate preconception wellness blueprint for mama's to be at any stage of life is the resource you have been looking for to walk you through preparing your body for pregnancy.

To all my PCOS warriors out there: you've got this. Your journey to parenthood might have a few twists and turns, but trust me, the destination is oh-so worth it 👶

Keep on the path to healing your body and never forget that you're stronger than you know. 💪✨

p.s.- check out my PCOS-targeted prenatal bundle HERE. Perfect for the PCOS Mama-to-be!