TLDR Isoflavone may help manage PCOS symptoms, but its effectiveness is uncertain.
Isoflavone, a phytoestrogen, shows potential in managing polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) symptoms by lowering testosterone levels, normalizing menstrual cycles, and improving ovarian morphology. It also positively affects the metabolic profile and reduces inflammatory markers and oxidative stress. However, the results on its efficacy are mixed, with both significant and non-significant outcomes reported. This review discusses the existing literature on isoflavone's effects on PCOS symptoms based on in vivo and clinical trial studies.
4025 citations
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December 2003 in “Human Reproduction”
The 2003 consensus updated PCOS diagnosis criteria and linked PCOS to higher risks of diabetes and heart problems, recommending lifestyle changes to lower these risks.
A user experienced high estrogen levels after 10 months of taking 1mg oral finasteride but is happy with hair regrowth. They are considering switching to topical finasteride and are also taking DIM and Zinc supplements.
Finasteride has no effect on the user's estradiol levels, and body fat may influence aromatization. The user is on testosterone replacement therapy and uses everyday injections to manage high RBC count, with plans to measure DHT, DHEA-S, and pregnenolone levels.
A 29-year-old male on 1 mg Finasteride for 3 months has experienced a significant increase in testosterone and estradiol levels, with no major side effects except slightly oilier skin and increased emotional sensitivity. The user is concerned about these hormonal changes and seeks advice, as their general practitioner is not knowledgeable about the issue.
The conversation discusses using estradiol mesotherapy to replicate hormone replacement therapy results while minimizing systemic exposure. It also covers the use of Spironolactone cream, which reportedly has no systemic side effects, and the potential risks of using bicalutamide and Spironolactone in men.
A user experienced initial side effects from finasteride, including erectile dysfunction and emotional changes, but later noticed increased muscle mass and assertiveness. Hormonal tests showed elevated estrogen and prolactin levels, which slightly decreased over time; the user plans lifestyle changes to see if they help.
A 30-year-old male using finasteride for hair loss has high testosterone and estrogen levels but no side effects. He is advised to monitor hormone levels, consider dietary changes, and use additional treatments like vitamin D3, minoxidil, and dutasteride for hair growth.
15 citations
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December 2016 in “Revista Da Associacao Medica Brasileira”
Polycystic ovary syndrome is a common hormonal disorder in women, linked to increased risk of metabolic and heart diseases, and needs more research for better understanding and treatment.
