Effect of Implanon on insulin resistance in women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

MEYER, Caroline
TALBOT, Mackenzie
TEEDE, Helena

¹Monash University Department of Vascular Science and Medicine, Dandenong Hospital, Australia
²Melbourne Assisted Conception Centre, Mercy Hospital for Women, Melbourne, Australia

Correspondence: Dr Helena Teede, Department of Vascular Science and Medicine, Dandenong Hospital, David Street, Dandenong Victoria, 3175, Australia. Email: [email protected]

Received 27 October 2004; accepted 24 November 2004.

The Australian & New Zealand Journal of Obstetrics & Gynaecology 45(2):p 155-158, April 2005.

The majority of women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) have insulin resistance (IR) and have a high risk of developing diabetes. In this retrospective study of women with PCOS, Implanon use was associated with increased insulin resistance, as evidenced by a deterioration in the homeostasis model assessment (HOMA) assessment of insulin resistance, and increased fasting insulin levels. Implanon might increase the risk of diabetes and potentially cardiovascular disease in this already high-risk group. Further research is required to establish the ideal contraceptive preparation in PCOS.