Metformin for PCOS & Fertility: What to Expect

Question
I have PCOS and I have been on birth control and tried clomid and  nothing yet. I had a doctor tell me that I should go to my regular doctor and asked to be put on metaphormin and within three months I should become pregnant. Is she just giving me false hope or is this something I should try?


Answer
Hi Tammy!

Well you certainly have more chances getting pregnant on the clomid, then you do the metaphormin. Metaphormin is given to PCOS suffers, to reduce heavy bleeds, and to reduce the male hormone effects that many PCOS patients suffer.

You see, PCOS patients develop high levels of insulin, this affects the pituatary gland, which then produces far to much of the male hormone. That is why many PCOS sufferers, have a significant weight gain, accompanied by facial hair, ect. Metaphormin, basically reduces the male hormone, you carry, so it will minimize the symptoms you feel.

Its possible that metaphormin will induce ovulation. But its no guarentee. And its not usually given, as a fertility drug. Its prescribed for PCOS suffers to fight their symptoms.

Clomid, is used to induce ovulation. Perhaps speak to your doctor about using metaphormin in attempt to stablize your cycle, then take clomid. I know a couple of PCOS sufferers that did this, and it did work, and they became pregnant.

I hate to speak against doctors. But telling you that you could get pregnant within 3 months, in my opinion, is wrong. PCOS in extreme cases, can cause extreme infertility. Some people simply cant get pregnant. Others, it takes long lengths of time, with switching medication dosages, and others have absolutely no issue at all getting pregnant. It comes in different degree's.

Again, I would definately discuss it with your doctor, and see what he reccomends. I dont know the degree of your condition, so I cant say how long it will take you to get pregnant, and what medications will work. You could get pregnant immediately, or it could take years. And unfortuently for PCOS sufferers, thats how it goes.

I hope this was of some help, and thanks for writing!

-Kristy