Weight control and polycystic ovary syndrome

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Weight control and polycystic ovary syndrome

If you have polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), being at a healthy weight can help you have regular menstrual cycles. Studies have shown that a weight loss of as little as 5% lowers insulin levels, lowers androgen levels, reduces male-pattern hair growth (hirsutism), and restores normal ovulation cycles.¹

Women with PCOS who are very overweight may have a difficult time losing weight and keeping their weight down because of the effect of insulin and glucose on their metabolism. Using a diabetes medicine like metformin can help control insulin and can help with weight loss.¹

For more information on how to lose weight, see the topic Healthy Weight.

References

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Citations
Speroff L, Fritz MA (2005). Anovulation and the polycystic ovary. Clinical Gynecologic Endocrinology and Infertility, 7th ed., pp. 465–498. Lippincott Williams and Wilkins.

Credits

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Author	Bets Davis, MFA
Author	Kathe Gallagher, MSW
Editor	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor	Pat Truman, MATC
Primary Medical Reviewer	Caroline S. Rhoads, MD - Internal Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer	Samuel S. Thatcher, MD, PhD - Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Endocrinology
Last Updated	January 23, 2008

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Last updated:	January 23, 2008
Author:	Kathe Gallagher, MSW
Reviewed By:	Caroline S. Rhoads, MD - Internal Medicine, Samuel S. Thatcher, MD, PhD - Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Endocrinology
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman, MATC

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