PCOS Infertility Help with Metformin

Glucophage Helps by Increasing Fertility When Trying to Get Pregnant

Nov 4, 2009

Looking for alternative way to increase fertility when trying to get pregnant? Metformin, also known as Glucophage, may be the answer.

Many options exist for women who are trying to conceive but are not getting pregnant. Herbal supplements, acupuncture, chiropractic treatment and assisted reproduction are just a few of the many things that infertile couples may try to help them conceive. One option for increasing fertility is a medication called metformin, also known as Glucophage.

Metformin and Body Insulin Regulation

Metformin is a prescription drug that is labeled for aiding in the control of type 2 diabetes. Along with a proper diet and exercise, metformin can regulate the level of blood sugar in the body. According to WebMD, metformin works by “helping to restore your body's proper response to the insulin you naturally produce, and by decreasing the amount of sugar that your liver makes and that your stomach/intestines absorb.”

Through various studies, doctors realized that women who are suffering from polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) tend to have a positive response to metformin’s effects on insulin in the body.

Increasing Fertility When Trying to Conceive

In women with PCOS, metformin, prescribed off-label, can help increase fertility by making menstrual cycles more regular. Women who are suffering from unexplained infertility can see positive results from adding metformin into their daily routine as well.

Metformin Contraindications

In rare cases, metformin can lead to a buildup of lactic acid in the body, called lactic acidosis. Limiting alcohol can aid in reducing the amount of lactic acid build-up in the body. Symptoms of this unusual condition include tiredness, drowsiness, chills, muscle pain, blue or cold skin, difficulties breathing and irregular heartbeats. If any of these symptoms occur, the prescribing doctor should be notified immediately.

In the event of pregnancy, metformin should be discontinued unless a doctor determines it is needed for insulin regulation. Often, insulin can be substituted if blood sugar problems exist during pregnancy.

Metformin should be avoided by people with certain disorders, according to WebMD. Always inform the prescribing doctor of the person’s complete medical history before attempting to take this or any other medication to avoid serious complications.

Hope for Infertility Treatments

Trying to conceive can be a very difficult time for many couple who are facing fertility problems. Knowing about treatment options can help give hope to those who may be feeling despair. Discuss the option of metformin with a doctor. If this option does not work, do not give up hope. It is important to remember that all people are different and what works for someone may not work for another.

The copyright of the article PCOS Infertility Help with Metformin in Fertility Treatment Types is owned by Renee Holmes. Permission to republish PCOS Infertility Help with Metformin in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.