In short, the cause of PCOS is unknown. However, the story is starting to unravel and several important lines of evidence have emerged that offer clues about a central mechanism.
By treating the insulin resistance, PCOS may be also treated, possibly reversed. While preliminary studies have been very encouraging, there is much to be learned. A major benefit of these medications
The physical removal of unwanted hair is a useful, if not necessary, adjunctive therapy. Permanent hair removal can be accomplished by electrolysis, which destroys the hair’s regeneration mechanism. Contrary to
Fertility drugs and their mechanism of action Normally, a single egg ovulates from a single follicle mid-way through a cycle that is 26 to 32 days in length. The processes of
In the past, ovarian wedge resection, a procedure whereby a portion of the ovary is removed and the ovary sewn back together, resulted a significant reduction in LH and androgen
Gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) is a hormone that is released from the hypothalamus and promotes production and release of the gonadotropins (LH and FSH) from the pituitary gland. A number
Steroids have the ability to suppress adrenal androgen production and may be useful in treatment of PCOS with an adrenal component. Overall, their use is better in theory than practice
This group of medications can be used only when not attempting a pregnancy and with some form of adequate birth control. There is at least a theoretical, risk of feminizing
Oral contraceptives (OC’s) are a mainstay of treatment of PCOS in women who do not want to become pregnant. The estrogen component of OC’s increases sex steroid binding globulin (SHBG)
While dieting is certainly valuable, it is the most difficult of therapeutic regimens to administer. With weight loss there is often an improvement in endocrine parameters and sometimes a return
