Evidence-Based PCOS Fertility Supplements: Nutrients for Insulin Resistance, Ovulation and Egg Quality to support natural fertility in PCOS
Written by fertility nutrition expert, Dr. Conor Kerley
Dr. Conor Kerley is a multi-award winning nutrition researcher, leading clinician as well as a member of the European Fertility Society and European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE).
What is PCOS
PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome) is characterised by
- insulin resistance,
- high levels of androgens (male hormones)
- disrupted ovulation
Insulin resistance drives excess androgens (e.g. testosterone) production, which can impair follicular development and ovulation.
It is well-established that PCOS is both a reproductive and metabolic condition.
What drives infertility in PCOS
PCOS-related infertility is primarily driven by metabolic dysfunction. Insulin resistance stimulates ovarian androgen production, disrupting follicular maturation and ovulation.
Chronic low-grade inflammation and oxidative stress further impair oocyte quality and mitochondrial function.
If you’ve been diagnosed with PCOS and are trying to conceive, you may feel confused, frustrated, or even overwhelmed. The good news? Emerging research suggests that targeted nutrition may help support PCOS management and fertility outcomes.
Globally, PCOS affects about 6–20% of women of reproductive age.
However, up to 70% of people with PCOS may be undiagnosed – so even if you haven’t been officially diagnosed with PCOS, you may still have PCOS especially if you have several of these features.
Common PCOS symptoms
· Irregular periods – e.g. infrequent periods, very long cycles,
· Signs of higher androgens (“male” hormones) – acne (facial), excess body or facial hair, thinning hair on scalp
· Weight changes – weight gain (especially around the tummy) , difficulty losing weight
· Insulin resistance symptoms – food cravings, energy crashes, darkened skin (e.g. on neck)
· Ovarian cysts - Enlarged ovaries with multiple small follicles on ultrasound
· Fertility difficulties
When to see a doctor for suspected PCOS?
If you have 2 or more of the above PCOS symptoms it is worth seeing a doctor.
How is PCOS diagnosed?
Doctors usually diagnose PCOS if 2 out of 3 are present:
1. Irregular ovulation
2. Signs of high androgens
3. Polycystic ovaries on ultrasound
Blood work is typically done to rule out other causes.
Treatment of PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome)
Clinical guidance from the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology emphasises lifestyle and metabolic optimisation as first-line management in PCOS, particularly for women seeking pregnancy.
Lifestyle optimisation
1. Nutrition
Focus on high-fiber, protein-rich meals (e.g. nuts, sees, legumes, soy)
Limit refined carbs and added sugars (white bread, white rice, most breakfast cereals)
A Mediterranean-style eating patterns work well
2. Physical movement
150+ minutes/week of moderate activity
Strength training improves insulin sensitivity
3. Weight management (if applicable)
Even 5–10% weight loss can restore ovulation in some people
But treatment is still needed even if you’re not overweight
Medications for treating PCOS
Medications are available to target
· Regulating Periods
· Managing High Androgens
· Treating Insulin Resistance
· Ovulation induction
Emerging human research suggests that specific nutrients can influence
· Ovulation (regular periods)
· Regulation of hormone (e.g. androgens)
· Insulin Resistance and insulin sensitivity,
· Inflammation,
· Oxidative stress,
· Mitochondrial dysfunction,
· Fertility difficulties
Therefore, specific nutrients in specific doses offer non-hormonal support for women with PCOS.
PCOS fertility supplements for natural conception
The nutrients which have been shown in human research studies in women with PCOS to improve ovulation, insulin sensitivity and metabolic markers in PCOS include:
Nutrients and supplements that reduce insulin resistance and improve insulin sensitivity in PCOS
1. Myo-inositol,
2. D-chiro inositol,
3. Chromium,
4. Lipoic acid,
5. N acetyl cysteine (NAC)
Nutrients and supplements that reduce inflammation & oxidative stress in PCOS
6. Omega-3 fatty acids,
7. Selenium,
8. Zinc,
9. Green tea extract
Nutrients and supplements that support mitochondrial function & egg quality in PCOS
10. CoQ10,
11. Carnitine
Nutrients and supplements that support methylation & hormone metabolism in PCOS
12. Vitamins B2 (riboflavin),
13. Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine),
14. Vitamin B9 (methyl folate),
15. Vitamin B12 (methylcobalamin)
Additional nutrients and supplements that support PCOS
16. Arginine,
17. N acetyl carnitine
Collectively, these 17 nutrients target the key physiological drivers of PCOS-related infertility:
· Ovulation (regular periods)
· Regulation of hormone (e.g. androgens)
· Insulin Resistance and insulin sensitivity,
· Inflammation,
· Oxidative stress,
· Mitochondrial dysfunction,
· Fertility difficulties
Therefore these 17 nutrients represent the best supplements for PCOS fertility.
For more details on the science of these nutrients, see below near the bottom of this blog.
Women with PCOS trying to conceive should consider targeted metabolic and mitochondrial support including supplementing these 17 nutrients alongside key preconception nutrients such as iodine.
Implementing these nutrients individually can be complex, requiring multiple supplements and careful dosing.
Because research-backed doses matter, combining these individual nutrients correctly can be complex, requiring multiple supplements and careful dosing.
Fertility Phix is an all in one fertility supplement and was formulated to provide these research-backed nutrients in evidence-informed doses, alongside additional compounds that support egg quality and mitochondrial function and hormone balance. Fertility Phix has already helped several women with PCOS to become pregnant – check out these reviews:
If you have PCOS and are trying to conceive, targeted nutritional support may be a valuable part of your strategy. Explore Fertility Phix here or contact us to discuss whether it is right for you.
Who is Fertility Phix suitable for?
Anybody on a fertility journey who wants to provide themselves with a comprehensive mix of research backed nutrients
When to start Fertility Phix?
Lifestyle changes, including supplements are recommended for at least 3 months before conception. This is because a woman’s eggs take approximately 3 to 4 months (roughly 90-120 days) to mature -this is why we offer a 3 month bundle where if you add 3 boxes Fertility Phix sachets to your cart, you save a massive 60 euro and get free shipping anywhere in the world!
Key Takeaways
• PCOS affects up to 20% of women of reproductive age
• Insulin resistance, excess androgens, Oxidative stress and inflammation play a role
• Specific nutrients (Myo-inositol, carnitine, lipoic acid NAC, Vitamin D) show promise for PCOS
• Nutritional support should begin at least 3 months before conception
Frequently asked questions
Can women with PCOS conceive naturally?
What supplements improve insulin resistance in PCOS?
What supplements decrease androgrens (like testosterone) in PCOS?
Can I take supplements while trying to conceive with PCOS?
Note, regardless of PCOS, fertility issues are NOT female only. Approximately 40–50% of infertility cases involve male factors. These figures highlight the importance of assessing both partners and the importance of a healthy fertility supportive lifestyle for both partners.
If you are a woman trying to conceive, make sure your male partner has been tested, is following a fertility friendly lifestyle and check our these blogs:
Nutrients for Male Fertility, Sperm Quality and sperm count - The Science
Nutrients for Male Fertility, Sperm Quality and sperm motility - The Science
Nutrients for Male Fertility, Sperm Quality and sperm morphology - The Science
Nutrients for Male Fertility, Sperm Quality and sperm DNA fragmentation - The Science
Nutrients for Male Fertility, Sperm Quality and varicocele - The Science
In addition to PCOS, other common conditions contributing to fertility issues in women, include:
Advanced age
Antiphospholipid syndrome
Endometriosis
Fibroids
Hypothalamic amenorrhea
Lupus
Premature ovarian insufficiency (POI)
Thyroid issues, especially Hashimoto's or autoimmune thyroiditis
More details on the science of these nutrients and supplements for supporting PCOS
Myo-inositol is one of the most extensively studied nutritional interventions in PCOS. Randomised controlled trials suggest it may:
• Improve ovulatory frequency and regularity (regular healthy periods)
• Reduce androgens (e.g. testosterone) levels
• Reduce insulin resistance and improve insulin sensitivity
• Improve oocyte (egg) quality
Most trials use 2–4g myo-inositol daily, with best results when combined with D-chiro-inositol in a 40:1 ratio. Research suggests a 40:1 myo- to D-chiro-inositol ratio may best reflect physiological plasma ratios.
Fertility Phix contains 40:1 myo- to D-chiro-inositol ratio – 2,000mg myo-inositol and 50mg D-chiro-inositol!
Inositol influences two crucial aspects of PCOS pathophysiology: insulin resistance and elevated androgens.
By influencing both reproductive and metabolic pathways in PCOS, inositol supplementation may improve related ovarian dysfunction.
Please note: This article is for educational purposes only and does not replace personalised medical advice. Nutritional strategies support ovulatory function but do not replace ovulation induction medications (e.g., letrozole) when clinically indicated.
· Not all supplements are appropriate for everyone. Always consult your GP or fertility specialist before starting supplements, particularly if undergoing assisted reproductive treatment.
· Timing matters – lifestyle changes, including supplements are recommended for at least 3 months before conception. This is because a woman’s eggs take approximately 3 to 4 months (roughly 90-120 days) to mature before ovulation, in a process known as folliculogenesis.
· Dosing matters – scientific research has reported benefits of certain doses. It is important to seek out and consume these doses to get the same benefits.
