First things first, remember Metformin should only be prescribed by a qualified physician and you cannot self-prescribe this drug. Metformin is normally used for controlling the level of glucose levels in blood for people who suffer type 2 diabetes. This drug is also prescribed for women who suffer PCOS – Poly Cystic Ovarian Syndrome because women with PCOS exhibit insulin resistance. Insulin resistance results in the increased demand for insulin to mobilize the blood glucose into the body cells. It has been noted that high levels of glucose or insulin in blood leads to infertility issues. Usage of Metformin for women with PCOS helps in lowering of insulin levels.
It has also been noted that women with PCOS exhibit irregular or lack of menstrual cycles and Metformin helps in restoring the menstrual cycle in women with PCOS. Regular menstrual cycles are essential for conceiving. Women with irregular menstrual cycles have lesser or reduced chances of getting pregnant. Therefore, every gynecologist will first try to restore the menstrual cycle of women that have problems with conceiving.
It has been proved that Metformin also induces ovulation and this increases the chances of getting pregnant. However, do not consume Metformin hoping to increase your chances of getting pregnant. You need to be diagnosed completely by your physician before you take any form of medication for your pregnancy related problems. Pregnancy is a complicated area and it requires professional guidance to deal with such problems and it is not your evening headache after a stressful day that you can get rid of using some over the counter pill. The mistakes you make here will be highly regrettable so always consult your physician.
However, we should also take into consideration the risks or negative side effects involved in the using Metformin.
Metformin results in malaise in some women, which can lead to anemia. So when prescribed with Metformin, the patient needs to be carefully monitored though not all of them have this side effect. It can also lead to gastrointestinal problems for a few weeks. This is typical after meals; this can be avoided by eating smaller portions of meals at frequent intervals rather than having large meals. Metformin at times leads to reduced absorption of vitamin B12. If this is not taken care immediately, it can lead to other health results over a period of time.
If you are already under some form of medication, it is important that you let your physician know of your medical history and your medical prescriptions so that you will not subject yourself to unnecessary medical complications by taking Metformin along with other medication.
