Choice of Treatment for Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

June 2006 in “ Fertility and Sterility ”

Roger A. Lobo

TLDR The conclusion is that metformin is a first-line treatment for PCOS, particularly for restoring ovulation and increasing pregnancy rates, with other treatments depending on specific symptoms.

The document discusses various treatment options for women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a heterogeneous disorder characterized by symptoms such as menstrual irregularity, hyperandrogenism, and metabolic issues like insulin resistance. For infertility due to ovulatory dysfunction, treatments include metformin, clomiphene, letrozole, gonadotropins, and ovarian drilling. Metformin has been highlighted as a first-line treatment, with a reported odds ratio of 3.88 for restoring ovulatory function and a higher cumulative pregnancy rate compared to clomiphene. Skin manifestations like hirsutism, acne, and alopecia related to androgen excess are typically treated with antiandrogens and oral contraceptives. Dysfunctional bleeding is managed with cyclic progestogens or oral contraceptives, while metabolic and weight concerns are addressed through lifestyle changes and metformin, with bariatric surgery as a less preferred option. The document emphasizes the importance of managing the metabolic disorder aspect of PCOS in all treatment strategies.

View this study on fertstert.org →

Discuss this study in the Community →

Related Community Posts Join

6 / 12 results

community What treatment should I take? and is it really bad?

in Treatment 4 upvotes 3 months ago

OP is experiencing significant hair loss despite GFC and PRP treatments and has abnormal lab results. They are advised to consult a hair-focused dermatologist for further evaluation.

community How does hair loss and recovery work?

in Chat 12 upvotes 3 months ago

Hair loss varies due to genetic sensitivity to DHT and other factors. Treatments discussed include finasteride, minoxidil, RU58841, and microneedling.

community C’est terrible - at my wits end

in Female 443 upvotes 1 year ago

A 29-year-old woman is experiencing gradual hair thinning since age 15, suspects Androgenic Alopecia, and has tried 5% minoxidil with little success. She has purchased various hair loss treatments including minoxidil, dutasteride, finasteride, and spironolactone, but is cautious about starting them due to potential interactions with her ADHD medication.

community Female, 30, PCOS diagnosis, MPB Norwood 2. Endo refuses to give anything other than Spironolactone. Feel like I’m at my wit’s end here.

in Female 53 upvotes 1 year ago

A 30-year-old female with PCOS and male pattern baldness is frustrated with her endocrinologist's recommendation of only Spironolactone and minoxidil, feeling that dutasteride, finasteride, and progesterone would be more effective. Other users suggest various online sources for treatments, warn against self-medicating due to potential risks, and recommend seeking a specialized endocrinologist or considering additional treatments like Inositol, Berberine, and dermaneedling.

community Is it possible for androgenic alopecia to begin at early adolescent years?

in Chat 70 upvotes 1 year ago

Hair loss can begin in early adolescence and cause mental anguish. Treatments mentioned include eating cruciferous vegetables, engaging in physical activity, and maintaining scalp hygiene.

community Why balding gets worse in every generation?

in Chat 81 upvotes 5 months ago

Balding seems to worsen with each generation, possibly due to stress, diet, and environmental factors. The user started treatments like Minoxidil and finasteride.

Related Research

1 / 1 results

research Choice of Treatment for Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

10 citations, June 2006 in “Fertility and Sterility”

The conclusion is that metformin is a first-line treatment for PCOS, particularly for restoring ovulation and increasing pregnancy rates, with other treatments depending on specific symptoms.