Living with polycystic ovarian syndrome can feel overwhelming, especially when managing symptoms. The good news? Many treatments can improve your quality of life. Whether you’re dealing with irregular periods, acne, unwanted hair growth, or fertility struggles, you have options.
Let’s break down PCOS treatments so you can make informed choices.
1. Lifestyle Changes: The First Step in Managing PCOS
Losing weight is the first treatment when considering polycystic ovarian syndrome management. It can improve insulin sensitivity, regulate periods, and reduce acne and excessive hair growth. For overweight or obese women with PCOS, exercise and a balanced, calorie-controlled diet are the first steps.
However, because PCOS causes insulin resistance trying to lose weight with this disorder can be particularly hard. Struggling to lose weight naturally? Don’t worry! Other treatment options can help you with that! You are not alone.
Studies show low-carb diets don’t offer significant advantages for insulin resistance. Instead, focus on healthy eating and regular physical activity.
Key Takeaway: Exercise and maintaining a healthy weight help manage PCOS, especially if you have insulin resistance.
2. Hormonal Contraceptives: Regulating Periods, Acne, and Hair Growth
Doctors often prescribe hormonal contraceptives (pills, patches, or vaginal rings) to regulate periods, acne, and excessive hair growth. These medications control hormone levels and menstrual cycles.
Hormonal contraceptives contain estrogen and progestin, which lower luteinizing hormone (LH) and reduce ovarian androgen production. Progestins also help block testosterone conversion, reducing acne and hair growth.
Key Takeaway: Hormonal contraceptives effectively manage menstrual irregularities, acne, and hirsutism. However, they may not be safe for women over 35 who smoke, have uncontrolled high blood pressure, or have diabetes with complications.
3. Metformin: Managing Insulin Resistance and Other Symptoms
Metformin helps women with PCOS who have insulin resistance or type 2 diabetes. It improves insulin sensitivity, regulates menstrual cycles, and may aid in weight management.
Doctors may prescribe Metformin for women who can’t take hormonal contraceptives. It’s also a common option for adolescent girls with PCOS to regulate cycles and improve insulin resistance.
Key Takeaway: Metformin is useful for managing insulin resistance and menstrual irregularities, especially if hormonal contraceptives aren’t an option.
4. Clomiphene Citrate: A First-Line Treatment for Infertility
Doctors often prescribe Clomiphene citrate to help women with PCOS conceive. This oral medication stimulates ovulation by blocking estrogen receptors, prompting egg development.
Key Takeaway: If irregular ovulation makes pregnancy difficult, Clomiphene citrate is often the first treatment option.
5. Treating Hyperandrogenism: Managing Acne and Hair Growth
High androgen levels in PCOS cause acne, excess hair growth, and scalp hair thinning. Treatments combine medications and cosmetic procedures.
- Cosmetic Treatments: Shaving, waxing, electrolysis, or laser hair removal manage unwanted hair.
- Medications: Oral contraceptives are the first-line treatment for acne and hirsutism. In severe cases, doctors add anti-androgen drugs like spironolactone, finasteride, or cyproterone acetate to block testosterone’s effects.
Key Takeaway: A combination of oral contraceptives and anti-androgen medications treats acne and hair growth, while cosmetic treatments offer long-term relief.
6. Newer Insulin Sensitizers: GLP-1 Agonists, DPP-4 Inhibitors, and More
New medications like GLP-1 agonists (e.g., semaglutide) and DPP-4 inhibitors show promise for PCOS. These drugs improve insulin sensitivity and may aid weight loss.
- GLP-1 Agonists: These medications improve insulin resistance and promote weight loss but can be expensive.
- DPP-4 Inhibitors: These drugs help control blood sugar and may prevent weight gain.
Key Takeaway: These newer treatments show potential but may be costly and have limited long-term research.
7. Myoinositol: A Natural Supplement for Insulin Sensitivity and Fertility
Many doctors recommend myoinositol for women with PCOS, especially those trying to conceive. This supplement improves insulin sensitivity and may enhance fertility. It’s often a gentler alternative to Metformin, especially for those with digestive issues.
Key Takeaway: Myoinositol is a well-tolerated option for improving insulin sensitivity and fertility.
PCOS Myths vs. Facts
| Myth | Fact |
|---|---|
| Weight loss cures PCOS. | Weight loss improves symptoms but doesn’t “cure” PCOS. It’s about symptom management. |
| Hormonal contraceptives are the only way to regulate periods. | Lifestyle changes and Metformin can also regulate cycles. |
| Metformin is only for women with diabetes. | Metformin treats insulin resistance in PCOS, even in non-diabetic women. |
| Anti-androgens are only for severe acne and hair growth. | These medications help moderate cases, especially with oral contraceptives. |
| PCOS always causes infertility. | Many women with PCOS conceive with treatments like Clomiphene citrate or lifestyle changes. |
Wrapping Up
PCOS treatment isn’t one-size-fits-all. The right approach depends on your symptoms, goals, and overall health. Work with your doctor to create a plan that fits your needs. With the right treatment and lifestyle changes, you can take control of PCOS and live a healthy, fulfilling life.
Note: This is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider before making changes to your treatment plan.
Rasquin LI, Anastasopoulou C, Mayrin JV. Polycystic Ovarian Disease. [Updated 2022 Nov 15]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-. Available from:https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK459251/
