Getting Pregnant Despite PCOS – An Overview

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Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common hormonal disorders among women of childbearing age. It can cause longer cycles, irregular ovulation, or even a temporary absence of ovulation. Nevertheless, pregnancy is often possible—with realistic expectations, proper diagnosis, and the right strategy, you can conceive even with PCOS. get pregnant.

Key Points

  • Of course, you can still get pregnant even if you have PCOS – Ovulation occurs less frequently, but it does happen in many women.
  • Recognizing late ovulation in time: Continuous cycle tracking (e.g., with OvulaRing) makes them visible—even during long, irregular cycles.
  • Ovulation tests (LH) are often unreliable in cases of PCOS – Persistently elevated LH levels lead to false-positive results.
  • Supporting hormonal balance: Diet, exercise, stress reduction—and getting your thyroid checked.
  • Medical supervision ensures accurate diagnosis (Rotterdam criteria) and appropriate treatment.

Ovulation in PCOS: More Common Than Long Believed

Irregular cycles, lack of ovulation, difficulty conceiving—many Women with PCOS are familiar with this situation. Many women with PCOS still ovulate – more often than previously thought. In our studies, natural pregnancy was possible in more than a third of cases. Find out here how modern cycle tracking can help you understand your PCOS and get a clearer picture of your fertility. This can significantly increase your chances of getting pregnant.

What Is PCOS? Symptoms & Diagnosis

  • Common signs: infrequent or absent menstrual bleeding, elevated androgen levels (e.g., acne, hirsutism), polycystic ovaries on ultrasound.
  • Diagnosis (Rotterdam Criteria): At least two of the following three criteria: oligo- or anovulation, hyperandrogenism, or polycystic ovaries. Other causes must be ruled out.

Background information: Menstrual Cycle Type: PCOS

How does PCOS affect fertility?

With PCOS, ovulation occurs less frequently. At the same time, studies indicate that spontaneous ovulation can occur in a significant proportion of those affected. The key factor is, to know if and when they will take place – This increases the chances of taking advantage of the fertile window.

Detecting Ovulation – An Overview of Methods

  • Cervical mucus & Menstrual cycle tracking: Low-threshold, but also subjective.

  • Urine LH tests (ovulation tests): In practice, however, PCOS can lead to false-positive results due to elevated baseline LH levels.

  • Basal body temperature (measured in the morning): Confirms ovulation after the fact; requires discipline.

  • Kalendermethode (Zykluskalender/Rechner): Schätzt die fruchtbaren Tage rein rechnerisch aus früheren Zykluslängen – einfach, aber ungenau und bei unregelmäßigen Zyklen kaum verlässlich. Mehr dazu: Eisprung rechnerisch schätzen
  • Continuous temperature measurement (core body temperature): Can help you identify cyclical patterns more clearly; also suitable for long or irregular cycles. Learn more here: Menstrual Cycle Monitoring for PCOS

  • Ultrasound and Hormone Monitoring in Clinical Practice: The gold standard under medical supervision.

Lifestyle & Hormonal Balance in PCOS

A PCOS-friendly lifestyle can help regulate irregular cycles and increase your chances of getting pregnant:

  • Nutrition: low in inflammation, low in sugar, and often low in gluten and dairy—especially for those with insulin resistance.
  • Movement: Moderate rather than high-intensity—training that is too intense can exacerbate symptoms through stress hormones.
  • Stress: reduce it wherever possible—chronic stress can exacerbate adrenal-related PCOS.
  • Thyroid gland: get checked – Women with PCOS are significantly more likely to have an underactive thyroid (e.g., Hashimoto’s disease), which makes it even more difficult to conceive.

Read more: Relieve PCOS Symptoms Naturally · Thyroid gland & Desire to have children

Find out your PCOS type now - OvulaRing

Find out your PCOS type and get pregnant faster

There are four types of PCOS. Our self-test can help you with orientational classification; however, determining the cause and making a definitive diagnosis should be left to medical professionals.

Why OvulaRing helps with PCOS

OvulaRing is the cycle tracker designed specifically for long and irregular cycles—making it ideal for PCOS.

  • Reliably detects, whether and when you ovulate – even with long cycles.
  • No alarm clock discipline: automatically measures core body temperature 24/7.
  • Recommended by gynecologists as Medical device certified.
  • Try it risk-free for 90 days – with a money-back guarantee.

How OvulaRing Works

  1. 💍 Insert & Trade shows: The ring is worn vaginally, fits comfortably, and is not noticeable.
  2. 📱 Read: To transfer data, remove the sensor and connect it to the app.
  3. 💡 Evaluate: The app shows you your ovulation and fertile days—presented in an easy-to-understand way.

View the OvulaRing package

✔ Money-back guarantee · ✔ Top ratings · ✔ Developed by gynecologists · ✔ Award-winning

Coverage by health insurance

Many health insurance plans cover the cost of OvulaRing. Use the health insurance checker to see if you’re eligible: Regarding coverage of costs

Chances of conceiving naturally

Many women with PCOS conceive naturally—especially if ovulation occurs and intercourse is timed to coincide with their fertile window. Lifestyle changes, understanding your cycle, and, if necessary, medical treatment can all help.

See also: Wanting to Have a Baby Despite PCOS – What Really Helps

Treatment & Options (Overview)

  • Lifestyle: Weight management, exercise, sleep, stress reduction.
  • Medication options: e.g., metformin, ovulation induction (after medical evaluation).
  • Reproductive medicine: Insemination, IVF/ICSI as needed.
  • Additional advice: Nutrition and Cycle Coaching.


Testimonial: Getting pregnant with the OvulaRing despite a PCOS diagnosis

What women with PCOS have to say

“I have PCOS and Hashimoto’s, and for years I was told it would be difficult. I tracked my cycle using OvulaRing, and the very next cycle I got pregnant—on the first try.”
“Because of PCOS, my cycle length varied a lot, and I never knew when I was ovulating. Thanks to the temperature sensor, I was able to pinpoint it, and I got pregnant in no time.”

More testimonials about PCOS & Desire to have children


When should you see a doctor?

  • For women trying to conceive who have cycle lengths longer than 35 days or who are not ovulating.
  • If additional symptoms are present (severe hirsutism, menstrual irregularities, pain).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Getting Pregnant Despite PCOS

Can I ovulate even though I have PCOS?

Yes—many women still ovulate, though less frequently or at a different time in the cycle. Ovulation can occur significantly later in the cycle. This can only be reliably determined through objective observation, such as tracking temperature patterns (basal or core body temperature), hormone measurements (urine/blood), and, if necessary, ultrasound monitoring of follicles under medical supervision.

How do I determine my fertile window?

It makes sense to combine these methods: observe cervical mucus, track temperature patterns, and (if necessary) check hormone levels. The 1–2 days before ovulation and the day of ovulation are considered particularly fertile. For irregular cycles, longer-term monitoring over several cycles and medical checkups can help identify typical patterns.

How is PCOS diagnosed?

The Rotterdam criteria are commonly used: the diagnosis is made based on two out of three findings (oligo-/anovulation, clinical/biochemical hyperandrogenism, polycystic ovaries on ultrasound)—other causes must be ruled out. These include medical history, physical examination, laboratory tests (e.g., androgens, thyroid, prolactin), and ultrasound.

What is the difference between PCOS and “polycystic ovaries” (PCO)?

“PCO” refers to an ultrasound pattern seen in the ovaries. “PCOS,” or “PCO syndrome,” involves additional criteria (e.g., irregular menstrual cycles and/or elevated androgen levels).

Which lab test results are important (e.g., AMH, testosterone, insulin)?

AMH provides an indication of ovarian follicular reserve, but is not, on its own, diagnostic for PCOS. Elevated androgen levels (e.g., testosterone) support the diagnosis. Signs of insulin resistance are often present. Your doctor will determine which test results are relevant.

What role do lifestyle factors play?

Exercise, a balanced diet, consistent sleep, and stress management can have a positive impact on hormone levels and increase the likelihood of ovulation. Quitting smoking and drinking alcohol in moderation are also recommended. Lifestyle changes are often the first step in managing fertility—regardless of other treatments.

When should I seek medical help?

As a general guideline: after 6–12 months of trying to conceive without success (depending on age). Earlier if your cycles regularly last longer than 35 days, if you haven’t had a period for months, if you have additional symptoms, or if you have known risk factors. Early basic diagnostic testing may also be advisable.

What treatment options are available if conception doesn’t happen naturally?

In addition to lifestyle changes, options may include—following a medical evaluation—ovulation induction (e.g., with certain medications), metformin if indicated, and assisted reproductive technologies. The choice depends on medical findings, age, and how long the couple has been trying to conceive.

Does having PCOS mean I’ll always be infertile?

No. Many women with PCOS do ovulate—it just happens less frequently or at irregular intervals. Studies show that natural pregnancy is generally possible for more than a third of those affected.

How can I tell if I’m ovulating if I have PCOS?

Reliable only through objective monitoring: continuous temperature measurement (basal or core body temperature), hormone testing if necessary, and medical follicle monitoring. LH ovulation tests often yield false positives in cases of PCOS.

Can I get pregnant naturally if I have PCOS?

Often, yes—especially when ovulation occurs and intercourse is timed to coincide with the fertile window. Understanding your cycle, adopting a healthy lifestyle, and seeking medical assistance if needed can increase your chances.

Is OvulaRing suitable even for women with very infrequent periods?

Yes. OvulaRing measures automatically around the clock—long intervals between periods do not affect measurement accuracy. It has been validated outside the standard cycle.

Does health insurance cover the costs?

Many health insurance plans cover the costs. You can find the personal checkup at Coverage of costs.

Sources / Bibliography

  • Phy JL et al. (2015): A Low Starch/Low Dairy Diet Improves Insulin Sensitivity and Sex Hormone Parameters in Women with PCOS. PubMed Central. Link
  • Xenou M et al. (2021): The effect of a low starch/low dairy diet on PCOS metabolic and hormonal outcomes. PubMed Central. Link
  • Marschalek J et al. (2023): Increased cortisol levels in women with PCOS: a systematic review and meta-analysis. PubMed Central. Link
  • Ijaz S et al. (2025): Role of luteinizing hormone and FSH ratio in PCOS: a review. Middle East Fertility Society Journal. Link
  • Cowan S et al. (2023): Lifestyle management in polycystic ovary syndrome – beyond diet and physical activity. BMC Endocr Disord 23, 14. Link
  • Ulrich J et al. (2018): Impact of Autoimmune Thyroiditis on Reproductive and Metabolic Parameters in Patients with PCOS. Exp Clin Endocrinol Diabetes. doi:10.1055/s-0043-110480
  • Glintborg D et al. (2019): Increased risk of thyroid disease in Danish women with PCOS: a cohort study. Eur J Endocrinol 180(1):13-21.
  • Kim C.-H., Lee S.-H. (2022): Effectiveness of Lifestyle Modification in PCOS Patients with Obesity: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Link
  • Rotterdam ESHRE/ASRM-Sponsored PCOS Consensus Workshop Group (2004): Revised 2003 consensus on diagnostic criteria and long-term health risks related to PCOS. Hum Reprod 19(1):41-7. doi:10.1093/humrep/deh098
  • Romitti M et al. (2018): Association between PCOS and autoimmune thyroid disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Endocr Connect 7(11):1158-1167. doi:10.1530/EC-18-0309
  • Xiao Jie Hu et al. (2022): Correlation between Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and PCOS: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Front. Endocrinol.
  • ESHRE (2023): International Evidence-based Guideline for the assessment and management of polycystic ovary syndrome.
  • Deutsches GesundheitsPortal (2018): Zusammenhang zwischen PCO-Syndrom und Schilddrüsenerkrankungen bestätigt. Link
  • NDR Ratgeber Gesundheit: Hashimoto-Thyreoiditis – Ursachen, Symptome und Behandlung. Link