FAQ - what does metformin do for pcos

What Does Metformin Do for PCOS?

Expert Gynecologist Insights

How Metformin Helps with PCOS

Metformin is commonly prescribed for women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) primarily to address insulin resistance, which is a frequent underlying issue in PCOS. Here’s how it works and its benefits:

• Improves Insulin Sensitivity: Metformin enhances the body’s sensitivity to insulin, reducing insulin levels. This can help lower blood sugar levels and improve metabolic health.
• Regulates Menstrual Cycles: By improving insulin resistance, metformin can help restore regular menstrual cycles in women with PCOS.
• Reduces Androgen Levels: High insulin levels can lead to increased production of androgens (male hormones), contributing to symptoms like hirsutism (excessive hair growth) and acne. Metformin helps lower androgen levels, alleviating these symptoms.
• Aids in Weight Management: Many women with PCOS struggle with weight gain due to insulin resistance. Metformin can help with weight loss or prevent further weight gain by improving insulin function and metabolism.
• Improves Ovulation: Regularizing menstrual cycles and lowering androgen levels can promote ovulation, which is beneficial for women with PCOS who are trying to conceive.
• Lowers Risk of Type 2 Diabetes: By improving insulin resistance and controlling blood sugar levels, metformin can reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes in women with PCOS.

Metformin is generally well-tolerated, but it can cause side effects such as gastrointestinal discomfort, including nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. These side effects often diminish over time or can be managed by adjusting the dosage.

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