A common cause of ovulation problems and female infertility is Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). Women with PCOS do not ovulate regularly and have irregular menstrual cycles. Their ovaries contain multiple small cystic structures, usually about 2-9 mm in diameter. For those who suffer from PCOS-induced infertility, Metformin may be a viable option.
Metformin, traditionally a first-line treatment for type 2 diabetes, is also being used as a new treatment for ovulation problems in women with PCOS. Metformin can either be used alone or in combination with Clomiphene Citrate.
During the past decade, scientists have conducted several clinical studies to determine ovarian responsiveness to Metformin. One of these studies (Velasquez et. al) showed that Metfomin use promoted menstrual cycle restoration in a large majority of the participants who had menstrual disorders. Metformin was given to 22 women for 6 months. In addition to restoration of menstrual cycles in about 96% of the participants, Metformin also showed its ability to promote ovulation and pregnancy. Ovulation occurred in about 87% of the women who had menses, whereas pregnancy rate was 18%.
Many other studies suggested that Metformin improves ovarian function, helps in menstrual cycle restoration and promotes fertility. Among these was the extensive 2- year study on 43 women who had amennorrhea and hyperinsulinic PCOS. This study showed that Metformin use restored menstrual cycle in more than 90% of the participants.
Metformin helps restore normal menses and reverse infertility by lowering insulin concentrations (which is why it is used to treat type 2 diabetes as well.) Metformin mainly affects insulin sensitivity. Women with insulin resistance-related PCOS produce insulin in excessive amounts. Ovaries seem to be sensitive to high blood levels of insulin, they respond by overproducing male hormones (androgens) like testosterone and this will cause PCOS symptoms such as infertility, excessive hair growth, male pattern baldness and acne. Metformin will can cause a decrease in testosterone levels which allows the ovaries to work more efficiently.
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), is a A common cause of ovulation problems and female infertility is Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). Women with PCOS do not ovulate regularly and have irregular menstrual cycles. Their ovaries contain multiple small cystic structures, usually about 2-9 mm in diameter. For those who suffer from PCOS-induced infertility, Metformin may be a viable option.
Metformin, traditionally a first-line treatment for type 2 diabetes, is also being used as a new treatment for ovulation problems in women with PCOS. Metformin can either be used alone or in combination with Clomiphene Citrate.
