The treatment of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome will depend on what particular symptoms that the woman is concerned with.

Irregular periods.

If the womans main concern is of irregular periods and she is not trying for a baby or requires contraception an oral contraceptive pill is helpful in regulating the cycle. Certain pills, particularly Dianette, may be helpful in controlling some of the symptoms of androgen excess, including acne and hair growth.

Fertility.

If the woman is having irregular or no periods at all and she would like to try for a baby, ovulation can be induced using a number of drugs such as Clomiphene. More recently Metformin, a drug which was originally used for the treatment of diabetes has also been used. Metformin works by lowering the level of insulin in the blood stream, therefore reversing many of the effects of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome leading regular ovulation and regular menstrual cycles. Sometimes it is necessary to use a clomiphene and metformin together as this combination is more effective than using  either drug alone.

Acne and excess hair growth.


Simple  treatment includes plucking, waxing electrolysis or the use of depilatory creams.  Vaniqa is a novel cream which actually slows hair growth and is particularly helpful.

Certain oral contraceptive pills, particularly Dianette may be used, these are especially useful if the woman also requires reliable contraception but it may take six months of more before any benefit is seen. 

Metformin can also help with androgenic symptoms including acne and excess hair growth.

What about weight gain?

It is very important therefore that women with polycystic ovaries be encouraged to exercise and lose weight as this will reduce the level of insulin in the blood stream and reverse many of the symptoms of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome.

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