TLDR Antiandrogenic pretreatment for women with PCOS does not improve fertility outcomes and delays pregnancy.
The study conducted in six centers across China involved 230 women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and hyperandrogenism. The participants were divided into two groups: one received immediate ovulation induction using letrozole (115 patients), and the other received antiandrogenic pretreatment using ethinylestradiol/cyproterone acetate (EE/CPA) for 3 months followed by ovulation induction using letrozole (115 patients). The final analysis included 166 participants, with 90 in the letrozole group and 76 in the EE/CPA+ letrozole group. The results showed no significant differences in cumulative ovulation, conception, ongoing pregnancy, and live birth rates between the two groups. However, the time taken to pregnancy was significantly longer in the EE/CPA+ letrozole group due to the extended 3 months of antiandrogen pretreatment. The study concluded that antiandrogenic pretreatment does not significantly improve ovulation induction outcomes but extends the time to pregnancy. Therefore, immediate ovulation induction is recommended for patients with conception plans.
195 citations,
November 2019 in “Clinica Chimica Acta” High levels of male hormones, insulin resistance, and obesity are closely linked and worsen polycystic ovary syndrome, but more research is needed to improve treatments.
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257 citations,
July 2018 in “Obstetrics & Gynecology” PCOS is a complex disorder in women that can lead to various health risks and requires personalized treatment.
82 citations,
May 2016 in “Best Practice & Research in Clinical Obstetrics & Gynaecology” The conclusion is that managing androgen excess requires long-term treatment, including hormonal contraceptives and androgen blockers, with follow-up after six months.
1540 citations,
October 2008 in “Fertility and Sterility” The report concludes that PCOS is mainly a condition of excess male hormones and its definition may change as new information is discovered.
12 citations,
February 2022 in “International Journal of Clinical Practice” Oxidative stress is higher in women with PCOS, especially if they're obese, and it may increase their risk of heart disease.
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December 2024 in “African Journal of Biomedical Research” Combining lifestyle changes and medication is most effective for managing PCOS symptoms.
6 citations,
August 2023 in “Fertility and Sterility” The 2023 guideline for PCOS suggests using updated diagnostic criteria, assessing related health risks, and recommends lifestyle changes and specific treatments for symptoms and fertility issues.
883 citations,
August 2016 in “Nature Reviews Disease Primers” Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common condition in women that can cause metabolic, reproductive, and psychological issues, and requires lifestyle changes and medication for management.
1265 citations,
October 2013 in “The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism” The guideline suggests using specific criteria to diagnose PCOS, recommends various treatments for its symptoms, and advises screening for related health issues.
