Treatment and Prevention
Given that the cause(s) of PCOS are unknown, there is no treatment for the
condition. The focus, instead, is on managing bothersome symptoms or those
that increase the risk for other diseases.
A healthy diet and exercise are important parts of managing PCOS regardless
of your weight. Weight loss is recommended for women with obesity; while it
will not cure PCOS, it will lessen symptoms.
Medications used to manage PCOS often influence how the body uses insulin
or restore the balance between male and female hormones in the body.
Oral contraceptives are used to manage many symptoms associated with PCOS for
women who are not trying to become pregnant. They regulate menstrual periods
and can reduce acne. Other options that affect hormone levels and are used by
women not planning pregnancy include progestins and anti-androgens, for example
spironolactone* and ketoconazole.
Medications that improve the body's ability to use insulin help to regulate
blood sugar. Metformin, an anti-diabetes medication, is an effective treatment
for infertility in many women with PCOS. Metformin can also help reduce weight,
unwanted body hair, and acne. If metformin is unsuccessful for managing infertility,
other hormonal options such as clomiphene or other infertility drugs may be
recommended. Other medications affecting insulin that may be used for PCOS include
rosiglitazone and pioglitazone.
Hair loss on the scalp may be managed with medications such as minoxidil and
spironolactone. Shaving, waxing, or other hair-removal methods may be required
to eliminate unwanted body hair. Acne may also be managed with medications available
with or without a prescription that can be taken by mouth or applied directly
to the skin.
Acanthosis nigricans may fade with the use of prescription medications applied
directly to the skin. Examples include 15% urea, alpha hydroxy acid, and salicylic
acid. This symptom may lessen with the use of metformin as well.
Lastly, your doctor may suggest ovarian surgery if other therapies are unsuccessful.
The most common type of surgery is called ovarian drilling. During this
procedure, doctors use a needle to make several tiny holes in the ovary. The
surgery helps to reduce androgens (male hormones) and improve regularity of
the menstrual cycle, and it may resolve fertility problems. The surgery is successful
in up to 50% of women and is considered an option for women who have not been
treated successfully with medication, diet, and exercise.
*All medications have both common (generic) and brand names. The brand name
is what a specific manufacturer calls the product (e.g., Tylenol®).
The common name is the medical name for the medication (e.g., acetaminophen).
A medication may have many brand names, but only one common name. This article
lists medications by their common names. For more information on brand names,
speak with your doctor or pharmacist.