Metformin often works best as part of a broader PCOS management plan. Doctors frequently combine it with other therapies depending on your specific symptoms and needs.
Weight Management: Metformin aids in weight loss, but combining it with a calorie-controlled diet and regular exercise significantly boosts results. Aim for gradual weight loss of 0.5-1 pound per week.
Lifestyle Changes: These are foundational. Prioritize sleep (7-9 hours), reduce stress, and limit refined carbohydrates and processed foods. These changes complement metformin’s action.
- Regular Exercise: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise weekly. Dietary Adjustments: Focus on whole grains, lean proteins, and plenty of fruits and vegetables.
Fertility Treatments: For women struggling with infertility, metformin may improve ovulation. However, it’s often used alongside fertility drugs like clomiphene citrate or gonadotropins to increase the chances of conception. Your fertility specialist will guide you here.
Hormone Therapy: If you experience severe acne, excessive hair growth (hirsutism), or irregular periods, your doctor might prescribe combined oral contraceptives (birth control pills) containing estrogen and progestin. These can help regulate hormone levels in conjunction with metformin.
Anti-androgen Medications: Spironolactone or flutamide can be added to address androgen excess, improving acne and hirsutism. Other Medications: In some cases, other medications addressing specific symptoms, like anxiety or depression, might be prescribed.
Remember: This information is for general knowledge and doesn’t replace personalized medical advice. Always consult your doctor before starting, stopping, or changing any medications or treatments. They’ll tailor a plan perfectly suited to your individual situation.
