In this episode of The Wellness Script, pharmacist Lauren O’Reilly sits down with Jess Willow, registered dietitian, certified fertility dietitian and intuitive eating counsellor, to unpack the connection between nutrition, fertility, PMOS - formerly PCOS - and women’s long-term health.
Jess shares her own experience of being diagnosed with PCOS at 19, the outdated advice she was given, and why the recent name change to PMOS better reflects the hormonal, metabolic and ovarian nature of the condition. Together, Lauren and Jess explore why fertility is not just a “female issue”, how sperm health can be influenced in as little as a few months, and why nutrition should be seen as one part of a much bigger health puzzle.
This is a practical, compassionate and evidence-led conversation for anyone thinking about trying to conceive, navigating PMOS, coming off the pill, supporting hormone health, or simply wanting to understand their body better.
If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by fertility advice, confused by supplement claims, or unsure where to start with nutrition, this episode will help you cut through the noise and focus on what actually matters.
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Show Notes
In this episode, Lauren and Jess cover:
Jess’s journey from clinical dietetics to fertility nutrition, intuitive eating and women’s health.
Why PCOS has recently been renamed PMOS, and what the new name tells us about hormones, metabolism and ovarian health.
The role of insulin resistance in PMOS, including its impact on cravings, energy, hormones and long-term health.
Why women with PMOS need more support than simply being told to “lose weight”.
How regular meals, protein, fibre-rich carbohydrates and healthy fats can support blood sugar stability.
The rise of GLP-1 weight loss medications, and why nutrition support matters before, during and after treatment.
Why fertility is a couple’s health journey — and why sperm health deserves more attention.
How nutrition, alcohol, smoking, vaping, sleep and lifestyle can affect male fertility.
The supplement mistakes Jess sees most often, from taking nothing at all to taking too much.
Why high-dose antioxidants, CoQ10, zinc and selenium should not be taken blindly.
What to consider when coming off the contraceptive pill, including nutrient status, cycle tracking and blood testing.
Jess’s advice for anyone thinking about trying to conceive: get support early, look at both partners, and focus on what you can add in rather than what you need to restrict.
:::PMOS is the updated name Jess discusses for what was previously PCOS, and the episode also explores fertility nutrition, GLP-1s, supplements, sleep and male fertility.
Resources & Links
🌐 Willow Nutrition — Jess Willow’s online nutrition clinic for women’s health, fertility, pregnancy and intuitive eating: https://willownutrition.ie/
📱 Follow Jess Willow on Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/willow_nutrition/
👩⚕️ Find a Registered Dietitian — Irish Nutrition & Dietetic Institute directory: https://www.indi.ie/find-a-dietitian.html
Disclaimer
This episode is for general information and education only and is not a substitute for personalised medical, dietetic or fertility advice. If you have concerns about your hormones, menstrual cycle, fertility, PMOS/PCOS, medication or supplements, please speak with your GP, pharmacist, registered dietitian or fertility specialist.
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