
If you have PCOS, you’ve probably heard all kinds of advice—some helpful, some confusing, and some outright ridiculous. As someone who lives with PCOS and works with clients managing it, I’m here to debunk some of the most frustrating myths I keep hearing.
1. Highly restrictive calorie counting is beneficial
PCOS is already challenging, and adding extreme calorie restriction to the mix only makes things worse. While calorie counting works for some, it’s not a magic bullet—and it can even backfire.
Overly restrictive diets can lead to:
Slowed metabolism
Nutrient deficiencies
Fatigue and irritability
Instead, focus on balanced nutrition over numbers. Build your plate with lean protein, unrefined carbs, unsaturated fats, and plenty of fibre. Oh, and don’t skimp on hydration -it’s underrated but crucial.
🔑 Pro Tip: Use your hand as a portion guide:
Protein = Palm-sized portion
Carbs = A cupped handful
Veggies = Two fists
Fats = A thumb-sized amount
if you’re considering a calorie-controlled diet, work with a registered nutritionist or dietitian who understands PCOS that can safely guide you.
2. PCOS Can Be Cured if You Just Do X-Y-Z
Spoiler alert: PCOS is a chronic condition. It can’t be “cured,” no matter what that influencer or blog claims.
What you can do is manage it. With medical, nutritional, and lifestyle interventions, you can reduce symptoms and improve your overall quality of life.
Instead of chasing cures, focus on building sustainable habits that work for your body. Think of it as learning to thrive with PCOS, not fighting against it.
3. Birth Control is Evil!
Birth control isn’t the devil, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution either.
For some, birth control can help regulate cycles, reduce painful periods, and manage symptoms like acne or hirsutism. For others, it can cause side effects like weight gain, mood swings, or nausea.
Do what works for you. If you feel great on birth control, that’s fantastic. If it’s not your vibe, that’s okay too. Work with a healthcare professional to explore your options and listen to your body along the way.
4. Manage Your PCOS Naturally—Avoid All Medications
Some people can manage their PCOS symptoms through natural interventions like nutrition, exercise, and supplements. And that’s great! But for many (including me), medical interventions are an essential part of the toolkit.
There’s no shame in taking medication if they help you feel better.
🔑 Your PCOS toolkit is yours to build:
Medications
Supplements
Therapy
Movement that feels good
Stress management techniques
Whether it’s natural, medical, or a mix of both—do what works for your body and your life.
5. Just Eat Less and Move More to Lose Weight
If weight loss were as simple as “calories in, calories out,” no one with PCOS would struggle. The truth is, PCOS makes weight management uniquely challenging.
Thanks to insulin resistance, hormonal imbalances, and slower metabolisms, weight loss can feel like pushing a boulder uphill. And even when you’re doing all the “right” things, your body might still hold on to weight.
💡 Instead:
Let go of the idea that you’re failing if traditional methods don’t work.
Experiment with approaches that suit your unique body, and seek guidance from professionals who understand PCOS.
6. PCOS Isn’t Real
Yes, people still say this. Despite affecting millions of women worldwide, PCOS is often misunderstood, underdiagnosed, and under-researched.
This lack of awareness leads to delayed diagnoses, poor treatment options, and women feeling unheard.
🔑 Instead: Let’s work toward better support, more research, and greater understanding of PCOS. Your symptoms and experiences are valid, even if someone else doesn’t “see” them.
Final Thoughts
Living with PCOS means dealing with plenty of myths, misinformation, and unsolicited advice. But here’s the truth: You’re not alone, and there’s no one-size-fits-all solution.
Whether you’re managing symptoms naturally, medically, or a little of both, the goal is to find what makes you feel your best. And remember, your journey is yours—don’t let anyone else dictate it.
References & Further Reading
Teede, H. J., et al. (2018). "Recommendations from the international evidence-based guideline for the assessment and management of polycystic ovary syndrome." Human Reproduction.
Azziz, R., et al. (2016). "Epidemiology and pathogenesis of the polycystic ovary syndrome." Nature Reviews Endocrinology.
Legro, R. S., et al. (2013). "Diagnosis and treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome: An Endocrine Society clinical practice guideline." Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism.