TL;DR: If you have Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), there isn’t one “best” birth control method that works for everyone. Treatment depends on your specific symptoms, health history, and personal goals. For instance: combined hormonal contraceptives (estrogen + progestin) are often used to regulate periods and treat acne or excess hair growth, while progestin‑only options may be better for those at higher risk of clots or who don’t have androgenic symptoms. Talk with your gynecologist to find the option that fits your body and lifestyle.
Need help exploring which birth control might work for you? Call 954‑340‑1050 or book online today.
There is no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to the best birth control for PCOS
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common endocrine disorders (hormonal imbalance) affecting over 10 million people around the world, and for some women, it can cause infertility and pain. The most common symptoms are painful, irregular periods, weight gain, hair loss, acne, mood changes, pelvic pain, etc. Some women with PCOS develop cysts on their ovaries, however, that is not always the case. Those looking for relief may be wondering what the best birth control for PCOS is.
At Dr. Lona Sasser Obstetrics & Gynecology, we know that PCOS is different for every woman and there is no one answer. Each patient has their own set of symptoms and experiences, so treatment is about focusing on how to manage the symptoms for each individual. We work closely and compassionately with our patients to find what the best birth control for PCOS is for them and their body.
If you’re struggling with PCOS and live in the Coral Springs, Florida area, schedule an appointment today to speak with one of our gynecologists.
Determining the best birth control for PCOS
There are many factors to take into account when deciding on what the best birth control for PCOS is for you: your symptoms, personal preferences, and overall individual health history. There are many different options to assess that can best suit your needs and help relieve your symptoms.
Some of the best options for birth control
Combined Hormonal Contraceptives (CHC):
Birth control that combines both the hormones estrogen and progestin are generally the most common type of birth control given to help manage PCOS symptoms because of how effective they are in regulating periods. If your symptoms are acne, irregular periods, and experiencing excess body hair, CHCs could be a great option for you.
However, if one of your symptoms is weight gain, or you’re already at risk for blood clots, CHCs may not be the best birth control in your case because they can exacerbate weight gain or put you at an even higher risk for blood clots. It’s important to note that it is best to discuss this with your gynecologist or health care practitioner.
CHC options include:
- Oral contraceptives
- Transdermal patch
- Intravaginal ring
Progestin-only options
If you don’t experience any of the androgenic symptoms (i.e. hair loss or increased body hair) the best birth control for your PCOS could be a progestin-only option like the Mirena IUD, the oral drug, Provera (medroxyprogesterone), or Depo-Provera which is administered as a shot every 3 months. Though, it also has its share of cons and risks.
The best birth control for you is determined in conversation with your healthcare provider
The options are quite extensive and there is no one answer for the best birth control for PCOS. If you are curious about what is best for you and are in the Coral Springs, Florida area, our team is happy to speak about this in depth, answer all your questions, and make sure you choose an option that is best for you and your body.
Schedule an appointment today and you’ll be one step closer to managing your symptoms.
FAQs About Birth Control for PCOS
Q: How does PCOS affect the choice of birth control?
A: PCOS causes hormonal imbalance which often leads to irregular periods, excess body hair, acne, and sometimes weight gain or cysts. Because of these varied symptoms, birth control choice needs to be tailored to your specific issues and health risks.
Q: What are the benefits of combined hormonal contraceptives (estrogen + progestin) for PCOS?
A: These are commonly used in PCOS management because they can regulate menstrual cycles and help with acne or excess hair growth.
Q: Are there risks associated with combined hormonal contraceptives if I have PCOS?
A: Yes. If you are already experiencing weight gain, or if you have an elevated risk of blood clots, combined hormonal contraceptives may not be the ideal choice.
Q: What are progestin‑only birth control options and when are they used for PCOS?
A: If you don’t have strong androgenic symptoms (like excess hair growth) or you have contraindications to estrogen, progestin‑only options (like certain IUDs, injections, or pills) may be used.
Q: Is there a “best” birth control for PCOS that works for everyone?
A: No — because every person with PCOS has a different set of symptoms, health history and goals. The “best” method is the one chosen in partnership with your doctor, based on your personal needs.
Q: What should I do if I’m dealing with PCOS and thinking about birth control?
A: Make an appointment to speak with a gynecologist who understands PCOS. Be ready to discuss your symptoms (irregular periods, acne, hair growth, weight changes), your health history (including clot risks), and your fertility or contraception goals. Then work together to select a method that aligns with you.