Comparison of Ovarian Electrocautery and Oral Contraceptives in the Treatment of Hyperandrogenism in Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

This study compared the effects of ovarian electrocautery (OE) and oral contraceptives (OC) containing desogestrel (DG) or cyproterone acetate (CPA) on hyperandrogenism in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). The study involved 41 women, with 18 receiving OC as sole treatment and 23 receiving OC after OE. OE was effective in inducing ovulation and increasing estrogen and progesterone levels, while OC had the opposite hormonal effects. Both treatments reduced androgen levels and increased sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG), but OC had a more pronounced effect. SHBG levels increased significantly more with OC treatment compared to OE. The study concluded that OCs are effective for treating hyperandrogenism, while OE is recommended for women with concurrent infertility. Combining the treatments offered no additional benefits, and delaying ovulatory cycling with OC after OE did not negatively impact future fertility.