Metformin treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome improves health-related quality-of-life, emotional distress and sexuality

In a prospective, observational study involving 64 patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), metformin treatment over 6 months was found to improve health-related quality-of-life (HRQL), emotional well-being, and sexuality. The study used validated questionnaires and visual analogue scales to assess changes in clinical and endocrine parameters, quality-of-life, psychological disturbances, and sexuality before, during, and after treatment. Significant increases in the psychosocial aspects of HRQL and a significant lowering of psychological distress were observed, with improvements being more pronounced in patients who experienced normalization of menstrual cycles and weight loss. Additionally, patients reported increased satisfaction with their sex life and higher frequencies of sexual intercourse post-treatment. The study concluded that metformin treatment can positively impact the psychosocial, emotional, and psychosexual aspects of PCOS patients, although it acknowledged that the observational nature of the study did not allow for a clear distinction between the effects of symptom improvement and potential non-specific or placebo effects.