Treating Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and Infertility

Between 4% and 18% of women worldwide are affected by polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and have the hormonal imbalances that lead to the cascade of symptoms, including weight gain and obesity. One of the first suggested treatments for infertility associated with PCOS is weight reduction, which has been shown to increase the chance of spontaneous ovulation and menstruation. Pharmacologic treatment usually includes metformin alone or in conjunction with clomiphene; both have been shown to increase conception rates and decrease risk of preeclampsia once pregnancy is achieved. Limited research has been published about the efficacy of oral contraceptives in producing conception. If pregnancy still eludes women with PCOS after initial pharmacologic treatments, gonadotropin therapy by itself or in conjunction with assisted reproductive therapy is considered. These treatments come with higher expense, and increased risk, and require extensive counseling prior to implementation. Additional research is needed to better understand what risks exist for pregnant women with PCOS and for their newborns.