Berberine is commonly used to support blood sugar regulation, cholesterol levels, and digestive health. However, its use may extend beyond these areas, with research suggesting potential benefits for reproductive health.
If you have polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), incorporating berberine into your supplement regimen might be of interest, which we will explain below. Also in this blog, we will discuss whether berberine is safe for pregnant and breastfeeding mothers.
Berberine and PCOS Insulin Sensitivity
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a condition that causes small cysts to form in the ovaries. Women with PCOS have an infertility rate that is 15 times higher than those without the condition [1]. Insulin resistance often presents alongside PCOS, and it can have adverse effects on ovarian androgen production [2]. The reproductive system needs these androgens to build healthy follicles that go on to ovulation [3].
Additionally, women who have PCOS and insulin resistance are at higher risk of developing diabetes mellitus (inability to regulate blood glucose levels) before, after, and during pregnancy [4].
A berberine supplement may be helpful for women who are trying to conceive with PCOS because it can significantly improve blood glucose levels and insulin sensitivity [5]. Managing your body’s response to insulin may enhance ovarian androgen production, possibly increasing your ability to ovulate and conceive [4].
Studies have found that a berberine supplement for PCOS may also be “efficient in improving IVF [in-vitro fertilization] rates” by regulating metabolic parameters, such as insulin resistance, fasting plasma glucose, and fasting insulin [4].
Berberine Dosage for PCOS
The most effective supplement dosage can depend on various factors, including age, weight, metabolic rate, and lifestyle – and berberine is no different. However, Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioners may recommend a dose of 500 mg twice daily for six months when prescribing berberine for fertility. At this dosage and timeline, berberine may improve insulin resistance and regulate menstrual cycles [6].
Berberine, Weight Loss, and PCOS
Studies suggest that overweight and obesity in teenage girls may be related to developing PCOS – it can also exacerbate the severity of PCOS in adolescent and adult women [7]. A significant body of research supports the idea that berberine can help prevent obesity by stimulating enzymes that activate the uptake of glucose and fatty acids and regulating gut hormone levels that cause insulin resistance [8].
If you are concerned that your weight is a factor in your inability to conceive with PCOS, taking a berberine supplement may help. Please consult your doctor for the proper PCOS berberine dosage and best results. It may be helpful to seek advice from one who specializes in helping women with PCOS conceive naturally.
Things to Know About Berberine for Fertility
Berberine supplementation may help regulate menstrual cycles, promote ovulation, and improve fertility outcomes in women with PCOS. However, research in this area is ongoing, and more evidence is needed to fully understand its efficacy for fertility. There is also limited research on whether berberine is safe during pregnancy and while breastfeeding.
Be sure to consult your healthcare professional to understand the proper berberine dosage for your goals. When utilized correctly, berberine can be a safe and healthy addition to your supplement routine.
Taking Berberine While Pregnant
Although berberine may be able to help women conceive, particularly those with PCOS, there is limited research on the effects of taking berberine while pregnant. One study found possible evidence that berberine may cause the uterus to contract, which could be unhealthy for fetuses and pregnant women [9].
Because there isn’t much scientific research to support claims that berberine is safe for pregnancy, it’s critical to seek advice from your healthcare practitioner.
Taking Berberine While Breastfeeding
Just like with berberine and pregnancy, there isn’t substantial research behind this supplement and breastfeeding. Berberine can pass into breast milk, but the exact amount that presents itself is not definitive. However, research does show that berberine in breast milk can lead to a buildup of bilirubin (a by-product of red blood cell breakdown) in infant brains. An accumulation of bilirubin can result in brain-related issues [9].
It’s recommended to speak with your doctor about berberine supplementation if you are pregnant and planning to breastfeed when your baby is born.
References (9)
- Hart, Roger. "Generational Health Impact of PCOS on Women and Their Children." Medical Sciences, vol. 7, no. 3, 18 Mar. 2019, p. 49,
- Goodarzi, Mark O., et al. "Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: Etiology, Pathogenesis and Diagnosis." Nature Reviews Endocrinology, vol. 7, no. 4, 25 Jan. 2011, pp. 219–231, https://doi.org/10.1038/nrendo.2010.217.
- Hillier, S.G. "Current Concepts of the Roles of Follicle Stimulating Hormone and Luteinizing Hormone in Folliculogenesis." Human Reproduction, vol. 9, no. 2, Feb. 1994, pp. 188–191.
- Ionescu, Oana-Maria, et al. "Berberine—a Promising Therapeutic Approach to Polycystic Ovary Syndrome in Infertile/Pregnant Women." Life, vol. 13, no. 1, 2 Jan. 2023, p. 125.
- Yang, Jing, et al. "Berberine Improves Insulin Sensitivity by Inhibiting Fat Store and Adjusting Adipokines Profile in Human Preadipocytes and Metabolic Syndrome Patients." Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine: ECAM, vol. 2012, 2012.
- Rondanelli, M., et al. "Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Management: A Review of the Possible Amazing Role of Berberine." Archives of Gynecology and Obstetrics, vol. 301, no. 1, Jan. 2020, pp. 53–60.
- Aggarwal, Muskan, and Swarupa Chakole. "Prevalence of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome and Its Link to Obesity in Adolescent Girls."Cureus, 17 Sept. 2023.
- Ilyas, Zahra, et al. "The Effect of Berberine on Weight Loss in Order to Prevent Obesity: A Systematic Review." Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, vol. 127, July 2020, p. 110137.
- Mother To Baby | Fact Sheets [Internet]" Brentwood (TN): Organization of Teratology Information Specialists (OTIS); 1994-. Berberine. 2023 Jun.
†Results may vary. Information and statements made are for education purposes and are not intended to replace the advice of your doctor. If you have a severe medical condition or health concern, see your physician.
