--- title: "What is Metformin and why it is used in fertility treatment" date: 2025-06-24 author: "HSFC Kenya" featured_image: "https://hsfckenya.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/What-is-Metformin-and-why-it-is-used-in-fertility-treatment.png.webp" categories: - name: "Male and Female Infertility" url: "/resource-library/articles/category/male-and-female-infertility.md" - name: "Treatments and Services" url: "/resource-library/articles/category/treatments-and-services.md" --- # What is Metformin and why it is used in fertility treatment Metformin is a medication primarily used to treat type 2 [diabetes](https://hsfckenya.com/resource-library/articles/male-and-female-infertility/the-link-between-diabetes-and-infertility/). While not a first-line treatment for fertility in general, it can help regulate menstrual cycles and improve ovulation in women with PCOS, potentially increasing their chances of getting pregnant. It helps correct the underlying hormonal and metabolic imbalances that interfere with ovulation. It’s generally safe, effective, and often used alongside lifestyle changes and other fertility-inducing medications. ###### METFORMIN Metformin is an oral insulin-sensitising agent. It helps lower blood glucose levels by: - Improving insulin sensitivity - Reducing glucose production in the liver - Decreasing intestinal glucose absorption ###### METFORMIN AND FEMALE FERTILITY Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) – PCOS is a hormonal disorder that commonly causes: - Irregular periods or no ovulation - Excess androgen (male hormones) - Insulin resistance ###### How Metformin Helps in PCOS: - Restores ovulation: Reduces insulin levels β†’ lowers androgen β†’ encourages regular menstrual cycles and ovulation - Improves menstrual regularity - May enhance response to fertility drugs like clomiphene citrate in women who are resistant to it - Reduces the risk of ovarian hyperstimulation during IVF ###### Weight and Hormone Balance - Metformin may promote modest weight loss, which can also help regulate ovulation. Helps reduce testosterone levels in [PCOS](https://hsfckenya.com/resource-library/articles/female-infertility/understanding-the-role-of-hormones-in-pcos/), improving symptoms like acne and unwanted hair. ###### Pregnancy Outcomes - It may lower the risk of gestational diabetes in women with PCOS. Some evidence shows reduced miscarriage rates in PCOS women, though this is still debated. Continued use during early pregnancy is sometimes prescribed under specialist supervision. ###### METFORMIN AND MALE FERTILITY Although less studied, some early research suggests: - It may improve sperm motility and reduce DNA damage in men with insulin resistance or metabolic syndrome. - Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects may benefit overall sperm health. ###### SIDE EFFECTS AND PRECAUTIONS - Common: Nausea, diarrhoea, stomach discomfort (often temporary) - Rare: Lactic acidosis (very rare, more likely in people with kidney problems) - Should be taken with food to reduce GI side effects - Not a standalone treatment for infertility, often combined with lifestyle changes or ovulation Read more about the benefits of Metformin for fertility in this [article](https://www.novaivffertility.com/fertility-help/what-is-metformin-and-why-it-is-used-in-fertility-treatment#:~:text=in%20Fertility%20Treatment-,Metformin:%20Uses%2C%20Benefits%2C%20Side%20Effects%2C%20and%20Its%20Role,metformin%20and%20what%20metformin%20is) by Nova IVF.