NCT02460445

Who might be able to join this trial:

• You are a woman who has not yet gone through menopause and has been diagnosed with higher-than-normal levels of male hormones (such as testosterone), either due to Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) or a similar condition called idiopathic hyperandrogenism.
• You have a medical reason to take the combined oral contraceptive pill, such as skin or cosmetic concerns related to excess male hormones that affect your emotional wellbeing, a need to protect the lining of your womb, or a desire for contraception.
• You are willing to have a blood draw (phlebotomy) if selected for that part of the study.
• You have read and signed a consent form agreeing to take part in the trial.

Who may not be able to join:

• You have a medical reason that would prevent you from donating blood.
• Your iron stores (ferritin or transferrin levels) are below certain levels, indicating they are too low (confirm with trial site).
• You have anaemia, meaning your blood does not carry enough oxygen (based on haemoglobin or haematocrit levels).
• You have chronic kidney disease or significantly reduced kidney function.
• You have a personal history of high cholesterol or other lipid problems, high blood pressure, pre-diabetes, diabetes, gestational diabetes, or heart or cardiovascular problems.
• You have taken the contraceptive pill, anti-androgen medications, insulin-sensitising drugs, medications affecting blood pressure, cholesterol or blood sugar, or iron supplements in the past 3 months.
• You have previously had surgery related to PCOS.
• You have donated blood in the past 12 months.
• You currently have or have a history of an infectious disease, inflammatory condition, liver disease, neurological disease, or cancer.
• You have an eating disorder or a Body Mass Index (BMI) below 18.5 (considered underweight).
• You have a hereditary condition called haemochromatosis, which causes the body to store too much iron.
• You have coeliac disease or any condition that affects your body's ability to absorb nutrients properly.
• You have a medical reason that means you cannot take the combined oral contraceptive pill.
• You are currently pregnant.
• You currently smoke, use recreational drugs, or drink more than a moderate amount of alcohol (more than 40g per day, roughly 3–4 drinks).

Important: Always verify eligibility with the trial site directly before applying.