Metformin for PCOS: Does it help manage the symptoms?

Polycystic ovarian syndrome or PCOS is caused due to an imbalance of hormones, especially androgens. Women with PCOS are more likely to have higher amounts of male hormones which makes them experience irregular periods and harder for them to get pregnant. Some of the most common symptoms of PCOS include excessive hair growth on the face and body, baldness and more. It can even increase a woman’s chances of developing heart disease and diabetes as well. While following a healthy lifestyle can help you manage the condition, your healthcare provider may recommend using metformin for PCOS to manage it symptoms. Here’s how you can use it and know if its safe for you.

What is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)?

PCOS is a condition that affect a woman’s hormones that changes during the reproductive years. As per the data by the World Health Organization (WHO), PCOS is a common hormonal condition that affects women of reproductive age. It affects an estimated 8-13 percent of reproductive-aged women and up to 70 percent of affected women remain undiagnosed around the world. Women suffering from PCOS often have many small cysts in their ovaries. It can lead to irregular periods, infertility issues, weight gain, acne and excessive hair growth. While the exact cause of PCOS is not fully understood, it is related to hormone imbalance. Managing the condition often includes lifestyle changes, medication or treatments to help manage these symptoms.

What is metformin?

Metformin is a Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved antidiabetic agent that helps to manage high blood sugar levels in patients suffering from type 2 diabetes. It helps improve how the body uses insulin, which helps lower your blood sugar levels. However, metformin is sometimes prescribed for women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) to help with insulin resistance and regulate menstrual cycles. It is usually taken as a pill. It is often recommended along with diet and exercise for better results. However, it should be taken under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

Metformin for PCOS: Does it help manage the symptoms?

Metformin, a medication primarily used to manage type 2 diabetes, is also commonly prescribed to women with PCOS. This is majorly because it helps to manage insulin resistance. A study published in the journal Clinical Medicine found that 50-90 percent of women with PCOS experience insulin resistance. Laparoscopic surgeon and IVF specialist Dr Vaishali Sharma says, “Metformin helps regulate blood sugar levels, which can help to reduce insulin resistance. By improving how the body processes insulin, metformin can help restore ovulation and improve menstrual regularity in some women. However, it is not a cure and works best when combined with lifestyle changes.”

“Managing your insulin levels can help with weight management, which is a common struggle for many women with PCOS. Additionally, metformin may help improve menstrual regularity and increase ovulation frequency, which is crucial for women trying to conceive,” adds the expert. A study published in the Gynaecological Endocrinology found that metformin may help decrease total testosterone levels and manage fasting blood sugar levels.

Metformin tends to work best for women with PCOS who also have insulin resistance or prediabetes. It is particularly effective for those who struggle with weight management or are at risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Women who have difficulty ovulating due to insulin resistance may also see improved fertility with metformin use. However, it may not be as effective for women without insulin resistance, in which case other treatments may be more appropriate, she adds.

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Are there any side effects of using metformin for PCOS?

While metformin can be beneficial, it does come with potential side effects. The most common side effects include gastrointestinal issues like nausea, diarrhoea, and abdominal discomfort. These side effects often improve over time or can be reduced by starting with a low dose and gradually increasing it. More rarely, metformin may cause vitamin B12 deficiency, so long-term users should monitor their levels. Lactic acidosis, a serious but rare side effect, can also occur, especially in people with kidney or liver issues, explains the expert.

Can PCOS be managed naturally without metformin?

Metformin is not the only medication that can help manage PCOS. Dr Sharma explains, “Other medications, such as hormonal birth control or anti-androgens, can help regulate periods and reduce androgen levels. Some women may also try inositol supplements, which have shown promise in improving insulin sensitivity with fewer side effects.”

Some lifestyle interventions can also help manage the symptoms of PCOS, which include:

• Eat a balanced diet low in refined sugars and high in fibre.
• Regular exercise is good for your health.
• Keep your weight in check by eating healthy and exercise daily.
• Regulate your menstrual cycle and improve your fertility by making these lifestyle changes and medication.
• Stress is also a risk factor of hormonal imbalance so practice stress management techniques such as yoga or mindfulness.

If you have been experiencing symptoms of hormonal imbalance or other symptoms of PCOS, try connecting with your doctor and get proper treatment.