Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) has become more widely known in recent years as a fairly common hormonal disorder and as a leading cause of infertility. Many doctors prescribe metformin – a drug primarily used to treat type 2 diabetes – to balance the hormones in patients with PCOS. In medical terms, metformin reduces hyperinsulinemia and suppresses the excessive ovarian production of androgens (male hormones) in women with PCOS.
In the past, researchers have recommended the use of metformin in patients whose goal was getting pregnant with PCOS through IVF, as it is supposed to improve success rates and reduce the incidence of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS).
Recent research supports the use of metformin when the patient has PCOS and IVF is being pursued. Dr. L. O. Tso and colleagues from Sao Paulo Brazil recently reviewed the literature and combined the results (meta-analysis) from nine randomized controlled trials including 816 women. They found that:
Based on these results, it would make sense to use metformin liberally in PCOS patients undergoing IVF.
To see a fertility specialist with decades of experience combining treatment for PCOS and the IVF process, make an appointment at one of InVia’s four Chicago area fertility clinics.
Dr. Karande is Board Certified in the specialty of Obstetrics and Gynecology as well as the subspecialty of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility. He is a Fellow of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and Member of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine.
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