Treatment for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

Diagnosis and Treatment 

Doctors typically use a combination of tests to determine whether a woman has PCOS. For instance, a physician may perform a pelvic examination to look for abnormalities. Blood tests are also common, as are ultrasounds, which can detect problems with the ovaries or uterus.  

As for treatment, medications are often used to manage the effects of PCOS. Common treatments can include: 

• Progestin – Progestin is a synthetic hormone that helps regulate periods. This treatment is beneficial when PCOS causes irregularities in menstruation, such as having too few periods or extended menstruation (meaning periods that last four days behind what’s considered typical).  

• Combination Birth Control Pills – Combination birth control contains both progestin and oestrogen. As a result, periods will become more regular, and the effects of high androgen levels will be diminished.  

• Drugs to Help with Ovulation – In the event a woman with PCOS wants to conceive, she may need to take medications to help with ovulation. This includes drugs like clomiphene and letrozole. Doctors may also prescribe metformin, which helps with insulin resistance.   

• Spironolactone – Excess facial and body hair can lead to serious self-esteem issues in women with PCOS. Spironolactone stops androgen from causing these effects, but it cannot be taken by women attempting to get pregnant due to the risk of birth defects.  

Doctors may also recommend lifestyle changes to lessen the effects of PCOS, such as maintaining a healthy weight and partaking in regular physical activity. With the right treatment, women with PCOS often enjoy full and enriching lives.