Effect of Phlebotomy Versus Oral Contraceptives Containing Cyproterone Acetate on Clinical and Biochemical Parameters in Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Randomized Controlled Trial

In a randomized controlled trial with 64 women with polycystic ovary syndrome, Behboudi-Gandevani et al. compared the effects of phlebotomy to oral contraceptives containing cyproterone acetate over a 3-month period. Both treatments improved insulin resistance and androgenic profiles, but oral contraceptives were more effective in regulating menstrual cycles. Phlebotomy resulted in fewer adverse effects on triglyceride concentrations. The study concluded that phlebotomy could be a viable alternative treatment for PCOS with fewer side effects, although it was less effective for menstrual irregularities. The authors noted the need for larger, longer-term studies to confirm these findings and acknowledged the limitations of the small sample size and short duration of their study.