PCOS and Fertility: Understanding Hormonal Imbalance and the Cycle

Polycystic ovary syndrome — most often called PCOS — is one of the most common hormonal conditions among women of reproductive age. It can appear in different ways: irregular cycles, absent ovulation, increased hair growth, or difficulties conceiving. Many also experience a sense of hormonal imbalance that affects both body and mood. But what actually happens in the body with PCOS, and how can you naturally support your fertility?

What is PCOS?

PCOS is not a single disease, but a collection of symptoms and hormonal changes. The name comes from the fact that the ovaries of some women with PCOS can contain small fluid-filled sacs (cysts). However, this is not always the case — and the cysts themselves are not harmful. The key issue is hormonal balance, which is often disrupted.

A high level of androgens (male sex hormones) can cause irregular or absent ovulation. This means the cycle becomes unpredictable, and the chance of hitting the fertile window decreases.

Symptoms of PCOS

• Irregular or absent periods
• Rare or absent ovulation
• Increased hair growth (face/body) or acne
• Reduced fertility
• Weight gain or difficulty losing weight

Not everyone experiences the same symptoms, and PCOS looks different from woman to woman.

Hormonal imbalance and its significance

With PCOS, the ovaries produce too much of certain hormones, creating an imbalance in the normal cycle. Ovulation often doesn’t occur, or it happens less frequently. For some women, this means they don’t experience regular cycles at all, while others only have minor variations.

Vitamin B6 contributes to the regulation of hormonal activity. This makes it an important nutrient when supporting the body toward better balance.

PCOS and fertility

Many women with PCOS conceive without treatment, but for others it takes longer. Irregular cycles make it difficult to know when ovulation is happening. This means that even after months of trying, you may never actually hit the most fertile days.

Here, it can help to get to know your cycle better — even if it’s irregular. Methods such as temperature tracking, cervical mucus observation, or using a cycle computer can be useful tools to identify when ovulation is most likely to occur.

Oxidative stress and cell protection

With PCOS, increased oxidative stress in the body is often observed. This can affect both egg quality and hormonal balance. That’s why it’s relevant to focus on nutrients that protect cells.

Vitamin C, vitamin E, zinc, selenium, and riboflavin contribute to protecting cells from oxidative stress. A diet rich in fruit, vegetables, whole grains, and nuts can provide natural support. 

Zinc and selenium – important for both women and men

Zinc contributes to normal fertility and reproduction and to the maintenance of a normal testosterone level in the blood. It is essential for ovulation in women and sperm production in men. Selenium contributes to the normal formation of sperm cells. Since fertility involves two, it makes sense for both partners to be mindful of their nutrient status.

Folate – even before pregnancy

Folate contributes to tissue growth in pregnant women. That’s why it’s important to already have sufficient levels when planning pregnancy. With PCOS, where ovulation is unpredictable, it may take longer to conceive. For this reason, it can be an advantage to start with folate well in advance.

Lifestyle and PCOS

Lifestyle plays a major role in PCOS. Regular exercise, enough sleep, and stress management can help support better hormonal balance. Here too, small changes can have a big impact: consistent bedtimes, calmer meals, and time for recovery. Some find that fertility yoga supports both body and mind.

The role of diet

A diet low in refined sugar and high in fiber can help stabilize blood sugar, which is often a challenge with PCOS. Stable blood sugar supports a more regular hormonal rhythm. Combine with proteins and healthy fats at each meal.

PCOS and mental health

PCOS is not only about hormones and ovulation. Many women also experience emotional challenges — worry, low self-esteem, or frustration with a body that doesn’t meet expectations. Here it’s important to remember that PCOS is not a barrier, but a challenge you can navigate. Speaking openly with your partner and seeking support in networks can be a big help.

When it’s time to seek help

If you have irregular cycles for a longer period and are trying to conceive without success, it’s a good idea to see a doctor or gynecologist. A fertility evaluation can clarify whether PCOS or other factors play a role. Even if treatment becomes necessary, your lifestyle changes will still be an important part of the journey.

Summary

PCOS is complex, but not impossible to manage. Small steps can support your body:

• Stable blood sugar through a fiber-rich diet and regular meals
• Focus on sleep, movement, and stress reduction
• Nutrients such as folate, vitamin B6, zinc, and selenium with documented roles in fertility and hormonal balance
• Antioxidants to protect cells from oxidative stress
• Knowledge of cycle and ovulation through tracking or a cycle computer

No one can change the whole picture alone. But you can support your body in a way that makes a difference for both hormonal balance and fertility — and give yourself peace of mind in the process.

Are you ready to take the next step toward a healthier lifestyle and better hormonal balance? At La Roar Life Science, we understand that your well-being is a journey through life’s different stages. Our FertilityCare® with zinc, which contributes to normal fertility, and folate, which contributes to tissue growth in pregnant women, FertilityMan® with selenium, which contributes to the normal formation of sperm cells, and zinc, which contributes to normal fertility and reproduction, PregnancyCare® with folate, which contributes to tissue growth in pregnant women, MaternityCare® with fenugreek, which contributes to the healing process after birth and increases milk production, as well as HormonalCare® with vitamin B6, which contributes to the regulation of hormonal activity. See all our products and begin your journey toward a healthier and more harmonious lifestyle today.

Our team is ready to help you with personalized advice on diet, lifestyle, and fertility preparation.
Book a personal and free 15-minute 1:1 consultation here: Link, where we focus on your individual needs and questions.