Effect of Phyto-oestrogens in Ovulation Induction with Clomiphene Citrate in Women with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome

Abstract

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrinopathy in women with reproductive age. PCOS is an endocrine condition, due to its heterogeneity and its etiology. Its prevalence is remarkably similar worldwide ranging from 6% and 20 %. Drug treatment is preferred in women who do not desire pregnancy, pharmacological agents consist of COCs and antiandrogens. Metformin has been reported to improve ovulation rates in women with PCOS. Chemically, CC is a nonsteroidal triphenylethylene derivative and, like other such compounds (e.g., tamoxifen), exhibits both estrogen agonist and antagonist properties, depending on the prevailing levels of endogenous estrogen. In some CC-resistant PCOS women, addition of glucocorticoids (e.g., dexamethasone 0.5 mg or prednisone 5 mg) to the CC treatment regimen will achieve ovulation when CC alone has failed.