Will PCOS Go Away with Weight Loss?
One of the most common pieces of advice I’ve heard over the years is, “Just lose weight, and your PCOS will go away.” But is that really true? Will PCOS go away with weight loss, or is there more to the story? Let’s dive in and uncover the truth.
Living with PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) can feel like an uphill battle. From irregular periods and stubborn weight gain to hormonal imbalances and endless fatigue, it often feels like our bodies are working against us.
What is PCOS?
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder that affects millions of women worldwide. It’s one of the leading causes of infertility, but its symptoms go far beyond that. PCOS is often linked to insulin resistance, high levels of androgens (male hormones), and chronic inflammation, which can lead to symptoms like:
PCOS is a lifelong condition, and while symptoms vary from person to person, the root cause usually stems from hormonal imbalances and metabolic issues.
Is There a Cure for PCOS?
One of the first things I asked my doctor when I was diagnosed was, “Can PCOS be cured?” Unfortunately, the answer is no—PCOS doesn’t have a cure. But that doesn’t mean we’re powerless.
While PCOS itself can’t be erased, its symptoms can be managed, and many women (including myself) have found ways to restore balance through diet, exercise, and lifestyle changes. According to the publication The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, lifestyle modifications, especially those that target insulin resistance, are among the most effective ways to improve PCOS symptoms (source).
Will PCOS Go Away with Weight Loss?
This is the million-dollar question, and the short answer is: No, losing weight won’t “cure” PCOS, but it can make a huge difference in symptom management.
Many women with PCOS struggle with weight gain due to insulin resistance. Insulin is a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar, but when our bodies become resistant to it, excess insulin circulates in the bloodstream, leading to weight gain, increased androgen levels, and even more hormonal imbalance.
However, weight loss—even as little as 5-10% of your body weight—can significantly improve PCOS symptoms. According to the publication Human Reproduction Update, weight loss can help regulate periods, improve ovulation, and reduce androgen levels, leading to less acne and hair growth (source).
But here’s the thing—losing weight with PCOS isn’t always easy, and the traditional “eat less, exercise more” approach doesn’t always work. That’s because PCOS weight gain is largely hormonal, and targeting insulin resistance is the key to seeing real results.
How Does Weight Loss Help with PCOS?
Weight loss, when done in a way that supports hormonal health, can have some pretty incredible benefits for PCOS:
- Improved Insulin Sensitivity
Since many women with PCOS have insulin resistance, reducing excess weight can help the body use insulin more efficiently. This, in turn, helps stabilize blood sugar levels and reduces the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
- More Regular Periods & Ovulation
Studies show that weight loss can help regulate the menstrual cycle and improve ovulation. In some cases, this can increase fertility and make it easier to conceive naturally (source).
- Reduced Androgen Levels
Excess androgens are responsible for frustrating symptoms like acne, hair loss, and unwanted facial hair growth. By improving insulin sensitivity and reducing excess weight, androgen levels can decline, leading to clearer skin and less hirsutism.
- Decreased Inflammation
PCOS is often linked to chronic inflammation, which can contribute to weight gain and metabolic issues. Eating an anti-inflammatory diet and maintaining a healthy weight can help reduce overall inflammation, making it easier to manage symptoms.
- More Energy & Better Mood
Let’s not forget how much better we feel when our bodies are in balance! Losing excess weight (in a sustainable way) can lead to better sleep, increased energy, and improved mood—something we could all use more of.
How to Lose Weight with PCOS (The Right Way!)
If you’ve ever tried to lose weight with PCOS, you know it’s not as simple as counting calories. The key is focusing on hormone-friendly strategies:
✅ Follow a PCOS-Friendly Diet – Ditch processed carbs and sugars in favor of high-protein, high-fiber foods. A diet rich in whole foods, lean proteins, and healthy fats can help stabilize blood sugar and reduce insulin resistance.
✅ Try Inositol Supplements – Myo-inositol and D-chiro-inositol are two supplements that have been shown to improve insulin sensitivity and promote weight loss in women with PCOS (source).
✅ Strength Training & Walking – Forget hours of cardio! Strength training and daily movement (like walking 5,000+ steps) can boost metabolism and improve insulin sensitivity.
✅ Reduce Stress – Chronic stress leads to higher cortisol levels, which can worsen PCOS symptoms. Try yoga, meditation, or deep breathing to keep stress in check.
✅ Prioritize Sleep – Poor sleep can worsen insulin resistance and make weight loss harder. Aim for at least 7-8 hours of quality sleep per night.
Final Thoughts: Will PCOS Go Away with Weight Loss?
While weight loss won’t make PCOS disappear, it can significantly improve symptoms and overall well-being. The key is not just losing weight but doing it in a way that supports hormonal balance and insulin sensitivity.
I know firsthand how frustrating PCOS can be, but trust me—small, sustainable changes can make a world of difference. Focus on nourishing your body, managing stress, and listening to what your hormones need. Your PCOS may not magically vanish, but you can take back control of your health and start feeling like yourself again.
