GLP-1 and PCOS: How These Hormones Affect Fertility and Weight

When you have PCOS, a common hormonal disorder that causes irregular periods, cysts on the ovaries, and trouble getting pregnant. Also known as polycystic ovary syndrome, it’s not just about fertility—it’s about how your body handles sugar and fat. Many women with PCOS struggle with insulin resistance, a condition where cells don’t respond well to insulin, leading to high blood sugar and weight gain. This is why losing even 5% of body weight can restart ovulation. That’s where GLP-1, a natural hormone that helps control blood sugar and appetite. Also known as glucagon-like peptide-1, it’s the target of newer weight-loss and diabetes drugs like semaglutide and liraglutide. These drugs don’t just help you lose weight—they help your body use insulin better, which can bring back regular cycles and improve egg quality.

GLP-1 agonists aren’t approved yet specifically for PCOS, but real-world use shows they work. Women who take them often see their periods return, their androgen levels drop, and their chances of conceiving go up. Unlike metformin, which has been the go-to for years, GLP-1 drugs also tackle cravings and belly fat—two big barriers for women with PCOS trying to get pregnant. They’re not magic, but they’re one of the few tools that fix both the metabolic and reproductive sides of PCOS at once. And unlike some fertility drugs that cause multiple pregnancies, GLP-1-based treatments don’t increase that risk.

If you’ve tried Clomiphene and it didn’t work, or if you’re tired of cycling through diets that leave you hungry and frustrated, GLP-1 might be the missing piece. It’s not a quick fix, but it’s a game-changer for women who’ve been told their only option is to lose weight before they can even start fertility treatment. Below, you’ll find real comparisons between GLP-1 drugs and other PCOS treatments, how they stack up against metformin, and what to expect if you’re considering them. This isn’t theory—it’s what women are using now to get pregnant and feel better.