PCOS and Fertility: A Deep Dive with Dr. Laura Von Hagen
If you’ve been diagnosed with PCOS and are trying to conceive, you’re not alone and more importantly, you are not without options.
In this episode, we sat down with Dr. Laura Von Hagen, a naturopathic doctor specializing in hormone health and fertility, to unpack what PCOS really means for your fertility, clear up common misconceptions, and share realistic, supportive strategies to help you move forward with confidence.
What Is PCOS and How Does It Affect Fertility?
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common causes of infertility but it does not mean you are infertile.
PCOS is a hormonal condition characterized by at least two of the following:
Irregular or absent periods
Polycystic ovaries (multiple follicles)
Signs of high androgens (like acne or elevated testosterone)
The biggest fertility challenge with PCOS comes down to ovulation.
If ovulation is irregular—or not happening at all it can make timing conception difficult or impossible without support.
But here’s the key takeaway:👉 Many people with PCOS can conceive naturally or with the right support.
The Birth Control Myth: Does It Cause PCOS or Infertility?
This is one of the most common concerns and one of the biggest misconceptions.
Birth control does not cause PCOS.
Instead, it often masks underlying symptoms.
Many individuals are prescribed birth control for irregular periods without investigating the root cause. When they come off it to try to conceive, those irregular cycles return leading to a PCOS diagnosis.
Another important myth to bust:You do not need to “detox” from birth control before trying to conceive.
In fact, some individuals with PCOS may be more fertile immediately after stopping birth control, as hormone levels may be temporarily more balanced.
PCOS and Body Weight: Why BMI Isn’t the Whole Picture
There’s a harmful misconception that PCOS only affects people in larger bodies.
While many individuals with PCOS may have a higher BMI, up to 20% have a “normal” body size.
This means:
PCOS can be missed or misdiagnosed
Blood sugar and insulin issues may still be present—even without weight concerns
For some, modest weight loss (5–10%) can help restore ovulation.For others, weight is not the driving factor at all.
The focus should always be on:✔️ Metabolic health✔️ Hormonal balance✔️ Individualized care
—not just the number on a scale.
Treatment Options for PCOS-Related Infertility
The path to conception with PCOS is not one-size-fits-all.
1. Cycle Tracking & Natural Support
For those who are ovulating:
Tracking cycles
Supporting blood sugar balance
Optimizing nutrients (like vitamin D)
can be enough to conceive naturally.
2. Ovulation Support (Medications)
If ovulation isn’t happening:
Medications like Letrozole may be used to stimulate ovulation
3. IVF (In Vitro Fertilization)
For some individuals:
Eggs are retrieved, fertilized, and implanted
No matter the path, preconception health is foundational including nutrition, supplementation, and lifestyle support.
The Best Diet for PCOS and Fertility
When it comes to nutrition, one approach consistently stands out:
👉 The Mediterranean diet
This includes:
Whole foods
Healthy fats
Lean proteins
Plenty of vegetables, fruits, and legumes
For PCOS specifically, there’s one added focus:
Blood Sugar Balance
This means:
Increasing fiber
Prioritizing protein (25–30% of intake)
Choosing low-glycemic carbohydrates
Limiting refined and processed foods
And most importantly?
✨ Balance over perfection.
An 80/20 approach allows for consistency without restriction—because sustainability matters more than extremes.
The Emotional Side of the Fertility Journey
Beyond the physical aspects, fertility challenges can be deeply emotional.
Many individuals:
Feel isolated
Navigate constant questions from others
Carry the stress of uncertainty
Having a supportive practitioner and care team can make a significant difference—not just in outcomes, but in how you experience the journey.
You Are Not Alone in This
PCOS may make the path to pregnancy more complex—but it does not make it impossible.
With the right support, education, and individualized approach, you can:
Understand your body
Support ovulation
Improve your chances of conception
Looking for Support?
If you’re navigating PCOS or fertility challenges, personalized care can make all the difference.
👉 Learn more at Nest & Nurture👉 Explore the PCOS Recovery Program👉 Discover Personalized Care👉 Or Contact Us
