Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
This is a very common condition where there are multiple small egg sacs on both ovaries which very rarely reach maturation to release their egg. Sometimes women with PCOS have a tendency to be over weight, can notice an excess of hair (typically on the face and lower abdomen) and usually their periods are irregular.
The simplest and most effective treatment for this condition is, where the woman is overweight, for her to lose weight. However, if, despite significant weight loss, the woman is still not ovulating, the fertility tablet, clomiphene citrate can be given. This treatment should be monitored by ultrasound as there is an increased risk of both multiple pregnancy and ovarian cysts. If this fails to result in pregnancy, injections of the hormone FSH can be used but this requires much greater monitoring and should only be given under the supervision of a properly established specialist clinic.
Occasionally patients are also given Metformin. This helps some patients respond to the drugs above but it is impossible to predict which patients will benefit.
For further information or to make an appointment, please contact us
Registered Office: Malone Medical Chambers, 142 Malone Road, Belfast, BT9 5LH, NI
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