How Ashlee Found Answers for Her PCOS While Navigating IVF

Ashlee was 18 years old when she got her PCOS diagnosis — and a warning that she'd probably struggle to have children. Then the appointment was over. No explanation of what PCOS actually meant, no plan, no next steps. For the next two decades, she did what so many women with PCOS learn to do on their own: research, trial and error, new physicians, new supplements, new routines, all in search of what would actually help her body.

Nearly 20 years later, deep into her third round of IVF, Ashlee's search led her to Allara — and to a level of care that finally looked at her whole picture instead of just her weight or her fertility numbers in isolation. Here's her story, in her own words.

Tell us about yourself.

Hi! I'm Ashlee, I'm 37 and I'm passionate about sharing my journey with PCOS, infertility, and IVF in hopes of helping other women feel a little less alone. Over the years, I've also become passionate about living a healthier, low-tox lifestyle and learning how ingredient awareness, nutrition, movement, and overall wellness can support my health. If sharing my experiences helps even one woman feel seen or gives her hope, then it's worth it.

What is your PCOS journey, and when were you diagnosed?

I was diagnosed with PCOS when I was 18 years old. I still remember being told I'd probably have trouble having children, and then the appointment was basically over. I left with a diagnosis but very little guidance on what PCOS actually meant or how to manage it. For the next two decades, I did what so many women with PCOS do — I researched, tried different supplements, different physicians, exercised, adjusted my nutrition, and spent years trying to figure out what worked for my body.

Why did you decide to sign up for Allara?

I signed up for Allara while I was preparing for my third IVF egg retrieval. My first retrieval gave us embryos, immediately followed by two embryo transfers, which unfortunately both failed. During my second retrieval, our results declined, and I couldn't shake the feeling that something more was going on with my PCOS. Even though I was exercising consistently, taking supplements, working with a dietitian, and eating in a calorie deficit, I was still struggling with symptoms that didn't seem to make sense. A friend who was using Allara to manage her own PCOS recommended it, and I decided it was time to dig deeper and better understand what was happening with my body.

How has your experience been with Allara?

From my very first appointment, I felt like someone was finally listening. My provider took the time to understand not only my PCOS symptoms but also where I was in my IVF journey and what my goals were. They ordered comprehensive lab work, explained my results thoroughly, and worked alongside my fertility clinic and dietitian to create a plan that fit my specific situation. I never felt rushed or dismissed, and that made such a difference.

What has been the most instrumental part of the care for you?

For me, it was having someone look at the whole picture instead of just treating individual symptoms or telling me I just needed to lose weight. My lab work revealed significant insulin resistance, elevated inflammatory markers, and high testosterone levels. We created a personalized plan that included medication management, supplement adjustments, and ongoing monitoring. Having a provider who continued to check in, adjust the plan as needed, and coordinate with my fertility team and dietitian helped me feel supported every step of the way.

Is there any advice you'd give someone struggling with PCOS and trying to get pregnant?

Advocate for yourself, and don't be afraid to ask questions. If you feel like something isn't adding up or your concerns aren't being addressed, it's okay to seek another opinion or find a provider who will take the time to listen. PCOS looks different for everyone, and finding a care team that sees you as an individual can make a world of difference.

Is there anything else you want to share about your experience with Allara?

One of the biggest gifts Allara gave me was peace of mind. Instead of constantly wondering if I was missing something, I finally felt like I had a team helping me understand what was happening in my body. We worked to improve my insulin resistance, inflammatory markers, and hormone levels while coordinating with my fertility clinic. I went into my third retrieval feeling healthier, more informed, and more confident than I had in years — and it ended up being my most successful retrieval. While everyone's journey is different, I'll always be grateful for finally feeling heard and having a care team that looked at the whole picture.

Want to follow along with Ashlee's journey? You can find her on Instagram at @ashleeneese.

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