Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common hormonal conditions affecting women in Australia, impacting approximately 1 in 10 women of reproductive age, and women in Sydney are no exception
The condition disrupts normal ovarian function and can cause irregular periods, acne, excess hair growth, weight gain, and fertility challenges. Managing PCOS involves a structured, long-term treatment strategy that addresses hormone balance, metabolic health, and reproductive goals.
With appropriate care, many women successfully regulate their menstrual cycles, conceive naturally or with support, and reduce long-term health risks. This article discusses all options available to women seeking PCOS treatment in Sydney, from natural to medical, so read on.
Medical treatments for PCOS
A doctor can decide the appropriate medical treatment for PCOS depending on symptom severity, fertility goals, and metabolic health status. Some of the options include:
- Metformin therapy: While commonly used for Type 2 Diabetes, a doctor can prescribe Metformin to improve insulin resistance in women with PCOS and help regulate blood glucose levels. This can indirectly improve ovulation and cycle regularity.
- Anti-androgen medications: These medications help reduce excessive hair growth and acne by lowering circulating androgen levels. Commonly prescribed off-label options include Spironolactone, Flutamide, and Finasteride.
- Hormonal contraceptives: Combined oral contraceptive pills are prescribed to regulate menstrual cycles, reduce androgen levels, and manage acne or Hirsutism (excess hair growth typically on the face, chest, back, and abdomen).
- Gonadotropin therapy: This treatment involves injectable follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) or a combination of FSH and luteinizing hormone (LH) to directly stimulate the ovaries to develop and release mature eggs.
- Ovarian drilling: In selected cases, a minimally invasive surgical procedure can be performed to restore ovulation.
- Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART): It includes advanced fertility procedures such as In Vitro Fertilization (IVF), in which eggs are fertilized outside the body and transferred into the uterus. It helps women to conceive when other fertility treatments are unsuccessful.
- Ovulation induction medicines: Medicines such as Clomiphene or Letrozole are prescribed to stimulate ovulation in women with PCOS who are trying to conceive.
Regular hormone testing, metabolic screening, and ultrasound monitoring are essential to ensure safe and effective treatment.
