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Birth control and PCOS
Quick answer
Combined pills are commonly used in PCOS to make periods regular and to help acne and excess hair; cyproterone acetate pills (Diane-35, Althea, Cybelle) are approved for the acne and hair side. If you cannot take estrogen, progestin-only methods or a hormonal IUD can protect the womb lining. Birth control manages symptoms; it does not treat the underlying condition, so PCOS care needs a doctor.
Why birth control is used in PCOS
PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) often means irregular or absent periods, acne, excess hair and difficulty with weight. Combined pills keep bleeding regular and lower androgen levels [TODO: source: combined pills in PCOS for cycle control (ACOG or NICE)]. Cyproterone acetate pills are approved for moderate to severe androgen-related acne and hirsutism [src].
Method families to discuss with your doctor
- Cyproterone acetate pills: Diane-35 (cyproterone acetate + ethinylestradiol), Althea, Cybelle. Strongest evidence for acne and hair [src].
- Drospirenone pills: Yaz (drospirenone + ethinylestradiol), Yasmin and their same-formula twins. A common comparison in Filipino PCOS groups [src].
- Progestin-only options: the progestin-only pill, implant, or a hormonal IUD if estrogen is not safe for you.
"No period during the placebo week"
A light or missing bleed on the pill is common and is not your PCOS acting up [src]. Filipinas in PCOS groups ask about this often [src]. See no period on the pill.
Cautions
Some people with PCOS also have high blood pressure, high blood sugar or a higher weight, which a doctor will factor in before prescribing an estrogen pill [src]. Mood changes on the pill are discussed in mood and birth control.
PCOS care beyond birth control
For diagnosis, fertility, weight and long-term health in PCOS, visit our sister site PCOS Philippines.
These are method families to discuss with a doctor, not a prescription. A health center visit is free, and online consults start from ₱700 on some platforms.
Three legal routes
Get a prescription or a clinic visit
Pills for PCOS need a prescription. An OB-GYN can also check for PCOS itself. Pick the route that suits you. For adults 18 and over.
Free at a health center
Barangay health centers, RHUs, DOH hospitals and Likhaan. Subject to supply.
See an OB-GYN in person
Clinic visit, prescription in hand. Bring it to any licensed pharmacy.
Online consult
A licensed doctor by video or chat. From ₱700 on some platforms.
Online consult options
For adults 18 and over. Fees are set by each provider and can change.
Frequently asked questions
Gagaling ba ang PCOS sa pills?
Hindi. Kinokontrol ng pills ang sintomas tulad ng irregular na regla at acne, pero hindi nito inaalis ang PCOS. Bumabalik ang sintomas kapag itinigil.
Diane-35 or Yaz for PCOS?
Both are used. Cyproterone acetate pills like Diane-35 are approved for moderate to severe acne and excess hair. Drospirenone pills like Yaz are also commonly used. Your doctor will weigh your symptoms and risks.
Can I get pregnant after using pills for PCOS?
The pill does not harm fertility. PCOS itself can make getting pregnant take longer, which is a separate issue to discuss with a doctor.
This guide is for information. Talk to a doctor before starting, stopping or switching birth control.
Sources
- Benefits of Diane 35 and its generics outweigh risks in certain patient groups, European Medicines Agency
- Combined pill: who can and cannot take it, NHS
- Combined pill: risks and side effects, NHS
- Diane 35 or Yaz?, r/PCOSPhilippines
- Placebo week, r/PCOSPhilippines