Supplements that help support hormonal balance, fertility, and metabolic health have surged in popularity in recent years — and two compounds often at the centre of this discussion are Myo & d-chiro-inositol. Though they share a common chemical family, each plays a distinct role in the body’s complex biochemistry. Understanding how these nutrients work together can help you make better choices for your health.
What is Myo & d-chiro-inositol?
Myo & d-chiro-inositol are naturally occurring sugar-like compounds found in many foods and produced by the body itself. While they aren’t classified as essential vitamins, they are vital to several physiological processes, including cell signalling, insulin activity, and reproductive hormone regulation.
Myo-inositol is the form most abundant in tissues and serves as a key messenger in insulin signalling — helping cells use glucose efficiently — while d-chiro-inositol plays a role in glycogen synthesis, the process by which the body stores glucose.
When taken as supplements, Myo-inositol & d-chiro-inositol are most effective when used together in a specific ratio, often reflecting the balance present in healthy ovarian tissue. Researchers have frequently studied this pairing for its effects on fertility and metabolic health.
Benefits: What Research Shows
1. Hormonal Balance and PCOS Support
One of the most well-recognized benefits of supplementing with Myo & d-chiro-inositol is related to managing polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Women with PCOS often contend with insulin resistance and hormonal imbalances that contribute to irregular menstrual cycles, acne, and weight gain. Studies suggest that inositol supplementation may improve insulin sensitivity and help regulate menstrual cycles by restoring more normal hormone signalling.
By supporting insulin function, these compounds help reduce the effects of excess androgens — male-type hormones that can drive several common PCOS symptoms. Balancing these hormones can also promote ovulation, increasing the chances of conception for those trying to conceive.
2. Insulin and Metabolic Health
Inositols are linked with improved glucose metabolism, which may help lower risk factors associated with metabolic syndrome — a cluster of conditions that includes high blood sugar, elevated cholesterol, and increased blood pressure. One study showed significant improvements in triglyceride levels and other metabolic markers with inositol supplementation.
Both Myo & d-chiro-inositol contribute to how insulin works in the body, making them potentially useful for people aiming to support healthy blood sugar levels in conjunction with diet and lifestyle changes.
3. Fertility and Ovulation Support
Beyond their metabolic effects, Myo & d-chiro-inositol have shown promise in fertility settings. Myo-inositol, in particular, has been linked with enhanced egg quality and improved ovarian function, helping the body complete the ovulatory process more reliably.
Some clinical studies report higher ovulation and pregnancy rates when inositol supplements were included in fertility plans, particularly for women undergoing assisted reproductive technologies.
Are There Side Effects to Know About?
Most people tolerate Myo & d-chiro-inositol well, especially when taken in recommended doses. Because these compounds are water-soluble and naturally present in the body, major adverse events are uncommon. However, mild or temporary side effects have been reported in some cases, particularly when very high doses are taken.
Common mild symptoms include digestive discomfort such as nausea, stomach pain, gas, or loose stools. These tend to occur at doses significantly above typical supplemental amounts.
Other rare effects may include headache, dizziness, or fatigue, often when someone first begins supplementation or increases dosage quickly. If any side effects are severe or persistent, it’s wise to speak with a healthcare provider.
Final Thoughts: A Complementary Tool, Not a Cure
Myo & d-chiro-inositol offer a range of benefits for hormonal and metabolic health, particularly for people with PCOS or fertility challenges. While research continues to grow, current evidence points to improved insulin sensitivity, better hormone balance, and support for ovulation and menstrual regularity.
As with any supplement, they work best as part of a holistic health strategy that includes balanced nutrition, exercise, and professional guidance. Talk to your healthcare provider before starting inositol supplements if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or on medication, to ensure safe use.
Where to buy Myo-Inositol & d-chiro-inositol
If you are interested in taking this beneficial supplement to support fertility, reduce the risk of PCSO and regulate reproductive hormones, here are three options.
PCOSITOL
Price: £44.05 available from Amazon when you subscribe and save. £48.95 as one time purchase.
- ALL IN ONE DAILY SUPPLEMENT – Containing 11 premium nutrients for PCOS
- MYO-INOSITOL and D-CHIRO-INOSITOL -These may help improve insulin sensitivity, regulate menstrual cycles, reduce androgen levels, promote ovulation, and support fertility
- COENZYME Q10 – CoQ10 is a powerful antioxidant that may help improve egg quality, reduce oxidative stress, and enhance mitochondrial function
- MAGNESIUM – Magnesium plays a role in insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism, which are often impaired in individuals with PCOS
- FOLATE – Folate is important for reproductive health and may help reduce the risk of neural tube defects in pregnancy. It also plays a role in regulating homocysteine levels, which are often elevated in individuals with PCOS
- VITAMIN B12 – Vitamin B12 is involved in energy metabolism and may help improve energy levels, mood, and overall well-being in individuals with PCOS
- CHROMIUM – Chromium is a mineral that may help improve insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism
- VITAMIN D3 – Vitamin D deficiency is common in individuals with PCOS and may be associated with insulin resistance, menstrual irregularities, and other metabolic complications
- ZINC – Zinc is involved in hormonal regulation, immune function, and antioxidant defense. Supplementing with zinc may help reduce inflammation, regulate menstrual cycles, and support reproductive health
- CALCIUM and VITAMIN K2 – Both are involved in bone metabolism and may help improve bone health in individuals with PCOS, especially when taken in conjunction with vitamin D
Piping Rock Myo & D-Chiro Inositol for Women, 2060 mg (per serving)
Price: £31.61 for 300 capsules from Piping Rock
Get your daily inositol now in convenient quick-release capsules! Inositol is a simple carbohydrate and one of many B-complex vitamins. It is one of the many important nutrients that power your womanhood. At Piping Rock, our women’s formula features Myo & D-Chiro Inositol, two powerful forms of this ingredient in one complex. It’s one of our many nutritional formulas scientifically designed to support women.
Legendairy Milk, Myo & D-Chiro Inositol, 120 Vegan Capsules
Price: £26.49 Autoship at iHerb. £29.43 full price.
Big Uterus Energy! The FIRST Myo & D-Chiro Inositol chewable is here – in mmm cherry flavor. Legendairy Milk® Myo & D-Chiro Inositol is designed to provide natural support for healthy hormone levels, fertility, ovarian function, menstrual cycles, and metabolic balance.*
Balanced hormones are happy hormones. Myo-Inositol and D-Chiro Inositol are compounds that can work together to create a balanced hormonal environment and regulate blood sugar – essential for supporting regular menstrual cycles, ovulation, and fertility health.* We developed our formula to match the body’s naturally occurring and ideal 40:1 ratio of Myo to D-Chiro Inositol. Plus, it’s Non-GMO, Vegan, Halal, and free from gluten, sugar, and soy.