Metformin question

[Kat9lives]

I have PCOS and haven't had periods since coming off the pill over a year ago. I was put on metformin recently. I was told to take it on alternate days first to build it up. After ONE tablet I had a "natural" period. Could this be because of the metformin or just a coincidence? I've got the cramps etc with it (and had cramps a few days before taking the first metformin tablet) but didn't have any mood swings (which I used to get when having a periods on the pill). I've spoken to our clinic and they're happy to continue regardless (hubby has low sperm too) but am I getting ahead of myself thinking that I've had a natural period or has metformin done this? Any help would be great. Thankyou xx

[Holly111]

I was in a similar situation. I have pcos and didn't have a period for 11 months after stopping the pill. I had tried metformin but it didn't work. My consultant told me to come off it. I would think you have had a natural period. Everything needs a bit of time to build up in your system. One tablet doesn't seem enough! After 11 months I had a natural period with no help. I have now been put on clomid and am in my first cycle so am hoping it makes me ovulate xxx

[Kat9lives in reply to Holly111]

Thanks Holly111, it's good to know I'm not the only one! Good luck with your cycle xx

[DianeArnold Partner Nurse Fertility Network UK]

Hi Kat9lives. I don’t know if you know much about how Metformin works, but I will explain as simply as I can, with apologies if you already know. People who are diabetic are treated in 3 different ways – diet, tablets (Metformin) or insulin injections. Women who are not ovulating properly and/or do not have regular periods or who are overweight, are often prescribed Metformin. The reason being is that they often have an excess of insulin in their body cells. Because of this the glands in the brain that control ovulation, the pituitary and the hypothalamus cannot get their message through to the ovaries to get them to ovulate properly. Metformin “mops up” the excess insulin to allow the messages to get through. Often it can regulate periods, but ovulation still does not occur. This is when a drug called Clomid is often introduced as well to hopefully ensure ovulation occurs. Metformin allows Clomid to do its job more efficiently. It all sounds very complicated, but the mechanics of the idea work well. Of course this treatment does not work with every woman, and there is always the possibility that IVF or similar treatments may be required. Hope that helps. Diane

[Kat9lives in reply to DianeArnold]

Thanks Diane. I understand this but my question is really, can I have a fake period after 1 single metformin tablet or is it more likely my body naturally having a period? Thanks

[DianeArnold Partner Nurse Fertility Network UK in reply to Kat9lives]

Hi. I would think it would most likely be you this cycle, metformin takes a few days to kick in. Diane