Trying to get pregnant with PCOS?

Are you trying to get pregnant with PCOS and relying on ovulation predictor kits (OPKs)?

Your best friend swore by them and got pregnant on her 2nd try and here you are months later feeling defeated because they’re not working.

Maybe you've noticed that you get 2 dark test lines several days in a row and it’s so frustrating because it makes it impossible to pinpoint the exact day you’re going to ovulate.

I’ve been there, too!

OPKs may work for many women, but they shouldn’t be used as the ONLY indicator if you’ve got PCOS because your hormones aren’t as predictable when compared to women without PCOS.

OPKs are meant to detect your luteinizing hormone or LH surge - the point at which it peaks high enough to tell your ovary to release an egg - or ovulate. Your LH surge is what darkens the 2nd line on the test strip. And unfortunately women with PCOS may have several days of misleading LH surges and not actually ovulate. Talk about a hormonal AND emotional rollercoaster!

That’s why when I work with clients, we might ditch the ovulation kits or at least include additional ways to track signs and symptoms of ovulation.

Because while OPKs may work for some, they can often lead to more stress for women with PCOS.

At the start of your next cycle, try implementing cycle charting which includes a more comprehensive assessment of your fertility. Keeping track of your waking temperature along with monitoring your cervical fluid will not only help you determine impending ovulation but will also confirm that you have, in fact, ovulated.

Message me if you want a free printable cycle charting spreadsheet to help you on your journey.

Beth Benesh is owner of Beth Benesh Nutrition, specializing in nutrition counseling for women with PCOS. She's a mother of three and avid runner who loves movies, mornings, and coffee.