If you’ve been diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), you’ve probably heard that birth control can help manage some of its symptoms. But is it a solution or just a way to mask the problem? While birth control can regulate periods, reduce acne, and control hirsutism (excess hair growth), it doesn’t necessarily address the root causes of PCOS, such as insulin resistance or hormonal imbalances. In this article, we’ll explore how birth control works in the context of PCOS, its benefits and limitations, and whether it’s a long-term solution.
What Does Birth Control Do for PCOS?
Birth control pills, especially combined oral contraceptives (COCs), are commonly prescribed to women with PCOS to manage symptoms. The hormonal components of these pills—estrogen and progestin—work together to regulate menstrual cycles, reduce androgen levels, and help manage skin issues like acne and hirsutism.
Benefits of Birth Control for Women with PCOS:
- Regulates Periods:
One of the most significant benefits of birth control for women with PCOS is its ability to regulate irregular periods. Since PCOS often leads to anovulation (lack of ovulation), taking birth control can help provide a regular, predictable cycle. - Reduces Androgens:
High levels of androgens (male hormones like testosterone) are common in PCOS, and they contribute to symptoms like hirsutism and acne. Birth control works by lowering androgen levels, leading to fewer unwanted hairs and clearer skin. - Improves Acne and Hirsutism:
The reduction in androgen levels can significantly improve acne and reduce excess facial and body hair for women with PCOS. This is one of the reasons why birth control is frequently prescribed for PCOS management. - Protects Against Endometrial Cancer:
Women with PCOS who have infrequent periods are at an increased risk for endometrial hyperplasia (an overgrowth of the uterine lining), which can lead to endometrial cancer. Taking birth control can help reduce this risk by ensuring regular shedding of the uterine lining.
Limitations of Birth Control for PCOS
While birth control offers several benefits for managing PCOS symptoms, it does not address the underlying causes of the condition, such as insulin resistance or hormonal imbalance. Here are some of the key limitations to consider:
1. Does Not Solve Insulin Resistance:
One of the key features of PCOS is insulin resistance, where your body has trouble responding to insulin, leading to higher levels in the bloodstream. Insulin resistance is a major contributor to weight gain and other symptoms of PCOS. However, birth control does not address this issue. Lifestyle changes such as diet, exercise, or medications like Metformin may be necessary to improve insulin sensitivity.
2. Can Mask Fertility Issues:
For women with PCOS trying to conceive, birth control may mask ovulatory dysfunction and fertility issues. While birth control helps regulate periods, it does not promote ovulation. In fact, when women stop taking birth control, they may have difficulty ovulating due to the underlying PCOS. Therefore, birth control should not be viewed as a long-term solution for women trying to conceive.
3. Doesn’t Treat Underlying Hormonal Imbalance:
While birth control can regulate hormonal levels temporarily, it doesn’t treat the root causes of PCOS—the hormonal imbalances that contribute to symptoms like infertility, irregular cycles, and excessive hair growth. Some women may experience a return of symptoms when they stop taking birth control, highlighting that it’s a temporary fix rather than a permanent solution.
4. Possible Side Effects:
Though birth control is generally considered safe, it can have potential side effects, such as:
- Mood changes or depression
- Weight gain
- Blood clots (especially for women who smoke or are over 35)
- Nausea or headaches
These side effects may make birth control an unsuitable option for some women with PCOS.
What Are the Alternatives to Birth Control for Managing PCOS?
For women who are looking for alternatives to birth control, there are several treatment options to manage PCOS symptoms and address the underlying causes. Here are a few alternatives:
1. Lifestyle Changes:
- Diet: Following a low-glycemic index (GI) diet can help manage insulin resistance and control weight. Foods like whole grains, leafy vegetables, and lean proteins are beneficial for regulating blood sugar levels.
- Exercise: Regular physical activity, particularly strength training and cardio, can help improve insulin sensitivity, reduce stress, and promote weight loss.
2. Metformin:
Metformin is a medication that is commonly used to treat type 2 diabetes but is also effective for managing PCOS. It helps improve insulin sensitivity, reduces insulin levels, and can help regulate ovulation in women with PCOS.
3. Other Medications:
- Spironolactone: This medication is an anti-androgen that can help reduce hirsutism (excess hair growth) and acne by blocking the effects of testosterone.
- Clomid or Letrozole: These medications are often used for ovulation induction in women with PCOS who are trying to conceive.
4. Fertility Treatments:
For women with PCOS who are struggling with fertility, options like IUI (intrauterine insemination) or IVF (in vitro fertilization) may be recommended to improve the chances of conception.
Birth control is a helpful tool in managing PCOS symptoms, but it should not be relied upon as a long-term solution. It’s essential to address the underlying causes of PCOS, such as insulin resistance, if you want to improve your overall health and fertility.
Final Thoughts
Birth control can be an effective way to manage some of the symptoms of PCOS, such as irregular periods, acne, and excess hair growth. However, it is important to understand that it does not address the root causes of PCOS, such as insulin resistance and hormonal imbalances. For women with PCOS who are trying to conceive, birth control is not a solution and should be carefully considered in consultation with a healthcare provider.
Whether you choose to use birth control or explore alternative treatments, it’s important to work with a doctor to develop a treatment plan that addresses both your symptoms and long-term health goals.
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Sources:
Anna Haotanto is the Founder of Zora Health and a passionate advocate for women’s empowerment. Anna’s personal experiences with egg-freezing, PCOS, perimenopause and the challenges of fertility have fueled her mission to provide high-quality information, financing, and support to help women and couples navigate their fertility journeys with confidence. She is also recognised for her achievements in finance, entrepreneurship, and women’s empowerment, and has been featured in various media outlets. You can also follow her on Linkedin or Instagram.
