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Updated: Nov 20, 2025

Author Spotlight: Investigating the Mechanisms and Inducing Models of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Published on: July 5, 2024
Menstrual Dysfunction in PCOS
Karrie Walker1, Alan H Decherney, Rhiana Saunders
1National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland.
Abstract:
Menstrual irregularities due to anovulation or severe oligoovulation are a key feature of polycystic ovary syndrome for many women. First-line intervention should entail dietary and lifestyle modifications for overweight or obese polycystic ovary syndrome women. For women not seeking fertility, combination low-dose hormonal contraception are the most effective and first-line choice for regulating menstrual cycles. This option, as well as progestin-only options, have the important added benefit of reducing risks of endometrial hyperplasia and cancer. Metformin is an appropriate medical option to improve ovulation rates for women who cannot take combined hormone contraception or whom are attempting conception.
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