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Kamel HH. 2013. Role of phyto-oestrogens in ovulation induction in women with polycystic ovarian syndrome. EurJ Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 186:60-63.
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrinopathy of women of reproductive age, characterised by hyperandrogenism, hyperinsulinaemia, long-term metabolic disturbances and menstrual irregularities, including anovulatory cycles.
In reproductive medicine, the first line choice for pharmacological ovulation induction is with selective oestrogen receptor modulators, with clomiphene citrate (CC) being the most extensively studied. Whilst trials of CC have demonstrated efficacy in ovulation induction and resultant pregnancy, there are numerous side effects associated with the drug including multiple pregnancy risk, undesirable anti-oestrogenic effects in the endocervix, endometrium and ovary, vasomotor flushes, mood swings, visual disturbances, breast tenderness, pelvic discomfort and nausea. Accordingly, there is interest in other ovulation inducing agents with demonstrable efficacy and a good safety profile.
Cimicifuga racemosa (black cohosh) is commonly used as an alternative agent to hormonal therapy for the treatment of menopausal complaints, but the mechanism of action and its receptor selectivity are not well understood. This prospective,...