Metformin and polycystic ovary syndrome

It's a drug that was developed for the treatment of age-related diabetes, but in recent years metformin has been fairly commonly prescribed to women with polycystic ovary syndrome. However, recent studies have suggested that it may not be particularly useful in helping them ovulate or increasing pregnancy rates.

Now researchers in the States have discovered that the way women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) respond to metformin may all depend on a variation in a particular gene which is involved in controlling levels of blood sugar, and that the women were more likely to ovulate after taking the drug if they had this variation. It may help to explain some of the conflicting data on the subject.

Polycystic ovary syndrome is one of the most common causes of fertility problems, as most women who have it ovulate irregularly or infrequently. It is often associated with weight problems, and may also lead to unwanted body or facial hair and skin problems. Women who have PCOS usually have imbalances in their hormones.

You can read more about the research here . Anyone who is affected by polycystic ovary syndrome, or wants to learn about it, may like to look at the website for that national charity supporting those with PCOS, Verity www.verity-pcos.org.uk