New Developments in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

• Studies are ongoing to evaluate the effect of short-term low-calorie diets on weight loss in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

• Researchers are continuing to explore the role of obesity in the pathogenesis of PCOS.

• Research is ongoing in hopes of gaining a better understanding of the relationship between insulin resistance syndrome and PCOS.

• The efficacy of recombinant follicle stimulating hormone (rFSH) for ovulation induction in anovulatory women with PCOS is being investigated.

• Recent research has shown that sibutramine, an orally administered drug used for the treatment of obesity, exhibited a positive effect on both clinical as well as metabolic parameters in obese women with PCOS.

• Studies are ongoing to evaluate the effect of metformin on ovarian stimulation and in vitro fertilization in insulin-resistant women with PCOS.

• Researchers are continuing to study the impact of insulin-resistance and obesity on cardiovascular risk factors women with PCOS.

• Newer, less invasive surgical techniques have been developed and are being evaluated for the treatment of anovulatory infertility in women with PCOS. These surgical techniques include:

  • Transvaginal hydrolaparoscopic ovarian drilling using bipolar electrosurgery
  • Minilaparotomy ovarian wedge resection

• Low-dose combination therapy consisting of flutamine, metformin, and an oral contraceptive are being evaluated for non-obese young women with PCOS.

• Increased awareness and education about the symptoms of PCOS in adolescents can lead to earlier diagnosis and can also potentially reduce the risk of long-term complications such as cardiovascular disease.

• Information regarding ongoing clinical studies in your area can be obtained at the Clinical Trials Listing Service at: http://www.centerwatch.com.

• You can learn more about PCOS and share your story with others at: http://www.soulcysters.com.