PCOS - Weight Loss & Fertility
Our PCOS weight loss and fertility programme supports women with polycystic ovary syndrome who want to improve their health, manage symptoms and support fertility through sustainable nutrition and lifestyle changes.
Who Is This For?
- Women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) who are struggling with PCOS weight loss.
- Women in a higher-weight or lower-weight body who are experiencing delays in achieving pregnancy.
- Women who want to improve their weight, lifestyle and overall health before trying for a baby.
- Men with modifiable diet and weight-related risk factors who would benefit from advice and support.
What Does Clinical Evidence Say About PCOS Weight Loss and Fertility?
Large international studies show that women in a higher-weight body who lose weight before pregnancy often improve both fertility treatment success and pregnancy outcomes.
Because of this, international clinical guidelines recommend weight loss as a first-line treatment for women with PCOS who have a higher weight before starting fertility treatment or planning a family.
Improving nutrition, lifestyle habits, and achieving sustainable PCOS weight loss can help support hormonal balance and fertility outcomes.
How Can a Weight Management Programme Help With PCOS Weight Loss?
There is no single approach that works for everyone trying to lose weight. Similarly, there is no single fertility diet that suits every person.
Many women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) find weight loss more challenging due to hormonal changes that affect metabolism and insulin sensitivity.
Recent research also shows that crash diets and extreme exercise plans rarely work long-term and can sometimes be harmful. Sustainable PCOS weight loss should never involve starving yourself or following unrealistic restrictions.
Instead, a structured and personalised programme can help you make manageable changes that support both weight management and fertility health.
Our Approach to Sustainable PCOS Weight Loss
The most effective strategy is a sensible and achievable long-term plan that helps you reduce weight and maintain those results.
The goals of our PCOS weight loss and fertility programme include:
- Achieving a realistic goal. We focus on a 5-10% reduction in body weight over 4-6 months, which research shows can improve fertility outcomes.
- Supporting sustainable PCOS weight loss, rather than short-term results.
- Providing a personalised nutrition and exercise plan, alongside appropriate psychological support. This approach has been shown to improve long-term success and overall quality of life.
- Helping you feel empowered and in control of your lifestyle, so you can maintain healthier habits and avoid returning to patterns that do not support your wellbeing.
Fertility Support for Men
We have not forgotten the men in your life.
Male factors contribute to around 30% of infertility cases, and these can often involve a combination of medical and environmental influences.
Lifestyle factors such as alcohol consumption, smoking, diet, and body weight can affect fertility. Many of these factors can be improved with the right guidance and support.
Our fertility programmes allow either partner, or both partners together, to receive support when addressing fertility challenges.
How Does Our PCOS and Fertility Plan Work?
You will work with a specialist registered dietitian over a six-month period.
Before your first appointment, you will complete a 121 Dietitian 7-Day Food Diary and Diet Plan Questionnaire. Gillian Killiner, Specialist Registered Dietitian, reviews this information before your consultation.
Your appointment can take place online through our secure portal or at our Holywood clinic. During the consultation, Gillian will discuss the findings and begin creating a personalised nutrition programme tailored to your needs.
Week 1 – Initial Consultation
During your first appointment, Gillian will discuss nutrition, motivation, and lifestyle changes.
You will receive a personalised nutrition plan, recipes, and a shopping list, along with SMART goals to guide your progress. The focus is on nutritional optimisation, which may include reviewing gut health, mental wellbeing, and blood markers. Diet and supplements may be recommended where appropriate.
Week 4 – Dietetic Review
At this stage, Gillian reviews your progress and adjusts your recommendations if needed.
If your goal is PCOS weight loss, a steady and manageable reduction of around 1 kg (2 lb) per week is usually recommended.
Week 12 – Progress Review
Before this review, you will submit an updated food diary.
This appointment may take place online, by phone, or via email, depending on your preference.
Week 22 – Final Consultation
Your final appointment includes a full reassessment of weight, health markers, and overall progress. Where relevant, this may be reviewed alongside your fertility team.
Programme Options
For women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) who want to focus on PCOS weight loss, our programmes are tailored to your individual needs and health goals.
If fertility is also a focus, support can be provided for either partner individually or for both partners together, depending on your circumstances.
If you would like guidance on weight management and fertility support as a couple, please contact the clinic directly to discuss the most suitable options.
Learn More About Managing PCOS
Empower yourself with practical knowledge about PCOS weight loss, nutrition, and lifestyle strategies.
Visit our blog at 121dietitian.com to explore expert advice, helpful tips, and evidence-based guidance designed to support women living with PCOS.