If you’ve struggled getting pregnant, then you may be all
too familiar with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS). It is estimated to affect
1 in 5 women, and is the leading cause of female infertility. PCOS is an
endocrine disorder resulting from imbalanced hormone levels. The cause of PCOS
has been tied to insulin resistance, which means insulin does not
perform as it should to balance glucose levels, thus provoking the ovaries to
secrete excess testosterone, and throw hormone levels out of balance. This
results in cysts on the ovaries, and pesky symptoms such as acne, excess body
hair, obesity, and irregular periods. In the world of
infertility, it is a common obstacle we help patients tackle.
Typically Metformin has been prescribed to combat insulin
sensitivity in PCOS patients. However,
there is a non-prescription dietary supplement that has
demonstrated promising clinical results without the side effects typically
experienced with Metformin. We aren't formally endorsing this product, but it is exciting to see a potential new treatment available for patients who want an alternative to prescription medication.
Pregnitude is a combination of folic acid and myo-inositol
(a fancy name for a compound that accompanies B vitamins in foods such as
grains and nuts). Basically, it is a
“helper” nutrient, which aids in insulin usage by cells in the pancreas.
Clinical trials have been promising so far, with results
including:
--increased ovulation frequency
--improved menstrual regularity
--higher quality eggs and embryos in patients undergoing IVF
Pregnitude comes in a powder form, and is taken twice daily,
mixed with water. It is available in most pharmacies, without a prescription,
or at www.pregnitude.com. Incidence of
side effects, or sensitivity to Pregnitude, have been low, but as always, talk
to your doctor first about this, and any other treatment options.
