Birth control is more than just pregnancy prevention—it’s a first-line treatment for PCOS. Our providers specialize in finding the formula that targets your specific symptoms.
Regulate Your Cycle:
Say goodbye to unpredictable spotting and sk
Clearer Skin
Lower androgen levels to reduce hormonal acne and unwanted hair growth.
Protect Your Health
Reduce the long-term risk of endometrial thickening.
Expert Support
Access to clinicians who actually understand the nuances of PCOS.
Unlimited Expert Support. Zero Guesswork.
Adjust your treatment, report side effects, or ask questions instantly. Your journey to the right birth control doesn’t end at the prescription.
Find Your Perfect Match
Every body is different, especially with PCOS. If the first method isn't the right fit, we make it easy to switch.
RX
The Pill (Combination)
The "Gold Standard" for PCOS. Best for acne and hair growth.
It is a common misconception that birth control cures PCOS. Birth control is a management tool, not a cure. It works by providing a steady stream of hormones that mask symptoms like irregular periods, acne, and hirsutism (excess hair growth). While it is highly effective at managing the effects of the hormonal imbalance, the underlying insulin resistance or metabolic factors usually remain and may need to be addressed through lifestyle or other medications.
Which type of birth control is best for PCOS symptoms?
Generally, combined oral contraceptives (containing both estrogen and progestin) are preferred for PCOS. Anti-androgenic pills: Look for brands containing drospirenone (like Yaz or Yasmin) or cyproterone. These are specifically effective at blocking the "male" hormones that cause acne and unwanted hair. The IUD: While the hormonal IUD (like Mirena) protects the uterine lining, it may not be as effective as the pill for clearing up skin or stopping hair growth.
Will birth control cause weight gain if I have PCOS?
Weight management is already a challenge for many with PCOS due to insulin resistance. While older studies suggested a link, most modern low-dose pills are not scientifically proven to cause significant weight gain. However, some individuals may experience temporary water retention or changes in appetite.
What happens to my PCOS symptoms if I stop taking the pill?
When you discontinue birth control, your body returns to its natural hormonal state. For many, this means a "rebound effect" where PCOS symptoms (like cystic acne or absent periods) return, sometimes more intensely for a few months as your system recalibrates. It is often recommended to have a "post-pill" plan involving nutrition and supplements like Inositol.
Does birth control affect my fertility later on?
No. Research consistently shows that birth control does not cause infertility. In fact, by regulating the uterine lining and preventing conditions like endometrial hyperplasia, it can help protect your reproductive health. The delay in getting pregnant after the pill is usually due to the body returning to its irregular PCOS ovulation cycle, not the medication itself.