Metformin in Women with PCOS to Overcome Insulin Resistance
Metformin is one of the prescribed medications for PCOS patients. Read on to learn more about the benefits of Metformin!
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder in reproductive-aged women. The medications prescribed by doctors are tailored to its symptoms.
This condition occurs when women of childbearing age experience hormonal imbalances, specifically an increase in androgen hormones, often referred to as male hormones. This leads to irregular menstrual cycles in women.
Furthermore, women with PCOS also experience excessive hair growth and the development of multiple cysts on the ovaries. The treatment for PCOS is tailored to its causes, symptoms, and severity.
Usually, medications are prescribed to address the hormonal imbalances that cause PCOS. So, why are PCOS patients given Metformin?
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Reasons PCOS Patients are Given Metformin
One of the types of medication prescribed for PCOS is Metformin. This medication is usually intended for diabetes treatment. This is because women with PCOS are susceptible to diabetes caused by insulin resistance.
One of the roles of Metformin is to reduce insulin resistance, which contributes to fertility problems. Metformin can address various common symptoms experienced by individuals with hormonal imbalances, such as:
Regulating menstrual cycles
Improving ovulation
Reducing the risk of gestational diabetes
Reducing hirsutism symptoms such as excessive hair growth and acne
Generally, the recommended dosage of Metformin for women with PCOS is 1,500 to 2,000 mg per day. However, it’s important to note that this dosage should be based on a doctor’s prescription.
According to Dr. Febriyan Nicolas, Sp.OG, M.Kes, an obstetrics and gynecology specialist at Bocah Indonesia, PCOS can affect not only overweight women but also thin women.
“PCOS can affect both overweight and thin individuals. In thin individuals, it can be caused by genetic factors that lead to insulin resistance, thick internal fat, or even malnutrition, which can hinder egg development,” said Dr. Nico.
Managing and Treating PCOS
Metformin is just one of the medications prescribed by doctors for PCOS patients. In essence, PCOS treatment can be done in several ways, such as:
Hormone therapy. This treatment is performed to regulate menstrual cycles and assist with ovulation.
Medication consumption. Some prescribed medications are beneficial for treating insulin resistance commonly experienced by women with PCOS.
Adopting a healthier lifestyle. Improving lifestyle choices by maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise, and quitting smoking can help manage PCOS.
Chances of Pregnancy for Women with PCOS
For women with PCOS, don’t lose hope, as you still have a chance of getting pregnant. It’s important to remember that there are several things you can do to maximize your chances of pregnancy, such as:
Consuming nutrient-rich foods like fruits and vegetables
Maintaining daily protein intake
Regular exercise for at least 30 minutes per day
Adequate rest
Consulting with a doctor
Parents-to-be, that’s the explanation regarding the function of Metformin medication given to PCOS patients. However, consuming this type of medication also requires a proper prescription and dosage from a doctor. Therefore, let’s promptly assess the fertility condition of both parents at the nearest fertility clinic to realize a quick pregnancy for the arrival of your little one.
This article has been medically reviewed by Dr. Chitra Fatimah.
Source:
- National Health Service. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/polycystic-ovary-syndrome-pcos/treatment/
- Hopkins Medicine. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/polycystic-ovary-syndrome-pcos