Metformin advice

[Tranters]

Hi

I have PCOS and they can prescribe metformin. I was just wondering what people’s experiences with it were? Have you lost weight? Has it helped fertility?

Xxx

[E_05]

I got put on metformin (finally) after my 4th cycle - 2nd mmc. I gradually built up to 500mg 3x a day ready for my 5th cycle and I’m now 23 weeks pregnant and still on metformin. You do have to put up with a bit of a dodgy stomach for a while and for me I don’t think it helped to lose weight. But although il never know for sure I do think taking it has made the difference during my pregnancy and would definitely say it’s worth trying x

[Tranters in reply to E_05]

Thank you c

[DianeArnold Partner Nurse Fertility Network UK]

Hi Tranters. 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 (I realise you are not) - 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 and 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