Are there any other treatments for PCOS?

    Researchedby:
    Morgan Pfiffner, Brady Holmer

    Fact-checked

    by:

    Marina Shkayeva, Graham Walker
    Last Updated: October 25, 2023

    Since PCOS is tightly linked with metabolic abnormalities, exercise is often recommended. In addition to reductions in insulin and insulin resistance, increased physical activity has also been linked to lower androgen levels and improved reproductive function in PCOS.[1][2] More research is needed to determine which types of exercise are most beneficial.

    A number of studies have investigated the effect of acupuncture on PCOS, with effects seemingly no different than placebo.[3][4]

    References

    1. ^Shele G, Genkil J, Speelman DA Systematic Review of the Effects of Exercise on Hormones in Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome.J Funct Morphol Kinesiol.(2020-May-31)
    2. ^Benham JL, Yamamoto JM, Friedenreich CM, Rabi DM, Sigal RJRole of exercise training in polycystic ovary syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis.Clin Obes.(2018-Aug)
    3. ^Pastore LM, Williams CD, Jenkins J, Patrie JTTrue and sham acupuncture produced similar frequency of ovulation and improved LH to FSH ratios in women with polycystic ovary syndrome.J Clin Endocrinol Metab.(2011-Oct)
    4. ^Wen Q, Hu M, Lai M, Li J, Hu Z, Quan K, Liu J, Liu H, Meng Y, Wang S, Wen X, Yu C, Li S, Huang S, Zheng Y, Lin H, Liang X, Lu L, Mai Z, Zhang C, Wu T, Ng EHY, Stener-Victorin E, Ma HEffect of acupuncture and metformin on insulin sensitivity in women with polycystic ovary syndrome and insulin resistance: a three-armed randomized controlled trial.Hum Reprod.(2022-Mar-01)