Can I get pregnant if I have polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)?

PCOS can make ovulation less frequent or unpredictable. This may reduce the number of chances to conceive over time, but it does not mean you cannot become pregnant. Some people conceive without fertility treatment, while others need help with ovulation. Results vary.

Before trying, schedule a visit to review medications, blood pressure, blood sugar, and other health needs. Ask about a prenatal vitamin with folic acid. Spironolactone is not appropriate during pregnancy. Birth control and other treatments also need to be reviewed, so do not assume your current PCOS plan fits pregnancy goals.

If your periods are very irregular or absent, you can seek a fertility evaluation early rather than waiting a full year. The evaluation may look at ovulation, sperm factors, and other possible barriers to pregnancy. A fertility clinician may discuss medicines that trigger ovulation, such as letrozole, when appropriate.

PCOS is linked with higher risks of gestational diabetes and some pregnancy complications, so prenatal care is important. If you do not want pregnancy, use reliable contraception. Irregular periods and metformin use do not provide dependable pregnancy prevention.