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To improve ovulation and chances of pregnancy in women with polycystic ovary syndrome
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
One out of every 10 women is diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). This is a condition characterised by irregular and or infrequent menstrual cycles, physical signs of excess androgens such as acne, excess hair growth or hair loss, and a cystic appearance of ovaries on ultrasound scan. A proportion of these women struggle to conceive due to irregular or absence of ovulation (anovulation). In the long term, it increases the risk of womb cancer, type 2 diabetes, and heart problems.
The current guidelines recommend weight loss as a first line treatment option to improve menstrual regularity and achieve pregnancy in women with anovulatory PCOS, trying to conceive. However, weight loss as a treatment option is not supported with strong evidence. It is also known to be associated with challenges with achieving and maintenance of the target weight. The medicines for ovulation induction include clomiphene citrate (clomid), letrozole or combination of them with metformin. If clomid/letrozole tablet is given, ultrasound monitoring is necessary, and it is not advisable to continue the treatment for longer than 6 months (may be considered up to 12 months). Metformin is also associated with significant gastro-intestinal side effects.
Myo-inositol is a nutritional supplement and studies have shown that in women with anovulatory PCOS, treatment with inositol increases frequency of menstrual cycles and doubles the ovulation rate. Therefore, there is a potential to use myo-inositol as a first line treatment option for ovulation induction in women with anovulatory PCOS, who are trying to conceive.
We are planning a research trial looking at Myo-inositol taken on its own and taken with letrozole/clomid as a fertility treatment option for women with PCOS, struggling to conceive. We would like your views on this subject, which will help us to develop the trial design of the study.
The questions in this survey are about your views on women with PCOS who are struggling to conceive. It should take no more than 5 minutes to complete. Participation is anonymous.
If you would like further advice or information you can contact us on the email "j.pundir@qmul.ac.uk".