There are so many supplements to choose from when it comes to PCOS and fertility. These are my top must have supplements when trying to conceive. Always remember to speak to your healthcare provider before taking any supplements.
1. Myo-Inositol
As far as supplements for PCOS go, Myo-inositol is by far one of the most talked about therapeutic supplements for women with PCOS who are trying to conceive. Myo-inositol can have a big impact in supporting ovarian health by supporting follicle health, and implantation rates in women going through IVF. [3]. Myo-inositol can improve insulin sensitivity, which will ultimately help with restoring ovulation. In fact, some studies suggest that myo-inositol can be just as good as metformin. A study completed in 2010, showed myo-inositol was superior to metformin. [1] Last but not least, research shows that myo-inositol can help improve egg quality and maturation. [2]
2. NAC
N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) is a very important supplement that has been specifically researched for PCOS and infertility. NAC is derived from the amino acid L-cysteine, and has been known to have powerful antioxidant properties, as it’s a precursor to the master antioxidant in the body known as glutathione. NAC also improves insulin sensitivity. Additionally it has been used in conjunction with Letrozole, resulting in improved rates of ovulation and pregnancy rates. [4]
3. Vitamin D
Vitamin D is most commonly known to be the “sunshine” vitamin. We know women with PCOS are deficient in Vitamin D, therefore it is crucial to test for Vitamin D levels and ensure proper levels are in the body while trying to conceive and during pregnancy. Vitamin D has been shown to improve ovulation, balance hormones such as luteinizing hormone, insulin, testosterone and sex-hormone binding globulin. Additionally, it can improve insulin resistance in women with PCOS. Research also shows it can raise pregnancy rates in women undergoing IVF. [5]
References:
- Raffone, E., Rizzo, P., & Benedetto, V. (2010). Insulin sensitiser agents alone and in co-treatment with r-FSH for ovulation induction in PCOS women. Gynecological Endocrinology, 26(4), 275–280. https://doi.org/10.3109/09513590903366996
- Akbari Sene, A., Tabatabaie, A., Nikniaz, H., Alizadeh, A., Sheibani, K., Mortezapour Alisaraie, M., … Amjadi, F. (2019). The myo-inositol effect on the oocyte quality and fertilization rate among women with polycystic ovary syndrome undergoing assisted reproductive technology cycles: a randomized clinical trial. Archives of Gynecology and Obstetrics, 299(6), 1701–1707. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00404-019-05111-1
- Simi, G., Genazzani, A. R., Obino, M. E. R., Papini, F., Pinelli, S., Cela, V., & Artini, P. G. (2017). Inositol and In Vitro Fertilization with Embryo Transfer. International Journal of Endocrinology, 2017, 5469409. https://doi.org/10.1155/2017/5469409
- Mostajeran, F., Tehrani, H. G., & Rahbary, B. (2018). N-Acetylcysteine as an Adjuvant to Letrozole for Induction of Ovulation in Infertile Patients with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. Advanced Biomedical Research, 7, 100. https://doi.org/10.4103/abr.abr_157_17
- Zhao, J., Huang, X., Xu, B., Yan, Y., Zhang, Q., & Li, Y. (2018). Whether vitamin D was associated with clinical outcome after IVF/ICSI: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Reproductive Biology and Endocrinology, 16(1), 13. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12958-018-0324-3
