Metformin for PCOS

[Msdj]

I have the mirena coil fitted and because of that I have no periods anymore. I have just started taking Metformin in the hope of losing some weight. On reading up about Metformin it mentions kick starting ovulation and periods etc. I am 45 and obviously don't want or need that part. Will my periods start again?

[lilac26]

As you have not had any answers I will have a go. If nothing else it will bump your post for you!

Metformin can cause periods to restart / become more regular in people who have polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). (I think) this is because the metformin treats the insulin resistance which has messed about with the hormone levels leading to failure to complete the ovulation cycle fully.

The mirena coil can lead to light or absent periods because of its effect on the lining of the womb.

So, it depends really. If your absence of periods is down to the mirena coil then it won't change. If it is down to PCOS then it might. So, you won't know until you try. However, if metformin does cause peiods to restart and this becomes a nuisance then it can be reversed by stopping the metformin as it does not cure PCOS but can help to manage it.

If you do have PCOS, do read around the subject as there is something about cardiovascular risk in people who have PCOS which can be helped by use of metformin (truly cannot remember details but when it was fresh in my mind it made me think that it was probably good to treat PCOS even if it was not causing any trouble)