Implementing the international evidence-based guideline of assessment and management of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): how to achieve weight loss in overweight and obese women with PCOS?

Efficacy and safety of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists in the treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome-A systematic review and meta-analysis

CONTEXT

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is an endocrine gynaecological disorder that affects many women of childbearing age.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of glucose-like peptide-1 receptor agonists for obese women with PCOS.

METHODS

We searched the PubMed, Embase, WOS, and Cochrane Libarary databases up to June 2023. Studies were eligible if they were randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing GLP-1RAs against any other treatments for patients with PCOS.

RESULTS

Overall, a total of 8 RCTs were included in this review, 7 of the RCTs compared GLP-1RAs with metformin, and 1 RCT compared GLP-1Ras with dapagliflozin. Compared with control group, GLP-1RAs were more effective at improving insulin sensitivity, reducing BMI, and resulting in a smaller waist circumference.

CONCLUSIONS

GLP-1RAs may be a good option for obese women with PCOS, especially those with insulin resistance. However, high-quality studies are also needed in the future to assess the efficacy of GLP-1RAs in women with PCOS.

Prevalence and Etiology of Eating Disorders in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Scoping Review

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrine-metabolic disorder affecting females across the lifespan. Eating disorders (EDs) are psychiatric conditions that may impact the development of PCOS and comorbidities including obesity, metabolic syndrome, and type 2 diabetes. The aim of this scoping review was to determine the prevalence of EDs and disordered eating, and to review the etiology of EDs in PCOS. The review was conducted using search terms addressing PCOS, EDs, and disordered eating in databases, including PubMed, Scopus, PsycINFO, and CINAHL. Structured interviews, self-administered questionnaires, chart review, or self-reported diagnosis were used to identify EDs in 38 studies included in the review. The prevalence of any ED in those with PCOS ranged from 0% to 62%. Those with PCOS were 3-6-fold more likely to have an ED and higher odds ratios (ORs) of an elevated ED score compared with controls. In those with PCOS, 30% had a higher OR of bulimia nervosa and binge ED was 3-fold higher compared with controls. Studies were limited on anorexia nervosa and other specified feeding or ED (such as night eating syndrome) and these were not reported to be higher in PCOS. To our knowledge, no studies reported on avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder, rumination disorder, or pica in PCOS. Studies showed strong associations between overweight, body dissatisfaction, and disordered eating in PCOS. The etiologic development of EDs in PCOS remains unclear; however, psychological, metabolic, hypothalamic, and genetic factors are implicated. The prevalence of any ED in PCOS varied because of the use of different diagnostic and screening tools. Screening of all individuals with PCOS for EDs is recommended and high-quality studies on the prevalence, pathogenesis of specific EDs, relationship to comorbidities, and effective interventions to treat ED in those with PCOS are needed.

The impact of sleeve gastrectomy on polycystic ovarian syndrome: a single-center 1-year cohort study

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Obesity is one of the risk factors for polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), and weight loss is the mainstay of treatment. This study investigates the effects of sleeve gastrectomy on clinical and paraclinical signs and symptoms of PCOS patients referred to a tertiary hospital.

METHODS

Female patients with a definite diagnosis of PCOS and body mass index (BMI) > 40 kg/m2 who were candidates for sleeve gastrectomy were enrolled in this cohort study and followed for 1 year postoperatively. Clinical signs and symptoms of PCOS, sonographic examination, and laboratory hormonal assessments were assessed preoperatively and 1 year following surgery.

RESULTS

Fifty patients enrolled in the study. The mean age of patients was 31.69 ± 9.54 years. The mean BMI before and after the surgery was 44.28 ± 3.03 and 29.37 ± 2.41 kg/m2, respectively. Oligomenorrhea was improved in 66% of patients. According to the sonographic criteria, PCOS was improved in 74% of patients. After a year post-operation, while the mean serum levels of the follicular stimulating hormone (FSH), testosterone, and dehydroepiandrostenedione have improved significantly in all patients (p < 0.001 in all), the significant decrease in serum luteinizing hormone (LH), LH/ FSH ratio, and estrogen was only noted in patients with improved clinical response (p < 0.05, p < 0.001, and p < 0.001 respectively).

CONCLUSION

Weight loss and improvements in hyperandrogenism following sleeve gastrectomy result in clinical and paraclinical improvement of PCOS signs and symptoms, including oligomenorrhea and ovulation induction.

The Experience of Living With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome in the Military

INTRODUCTION

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most prevalent reproductive endocrinopathy in women, ranging from 5% to 26% depending on diagnostic criteria applied. Common manifestations of PCOS include overweight and obesity, abnormal menstrual cycles, pelvic pain, increased facial and body hair, acne, and infertility. These abnormalities and associated complications have significant military operational and readiness implications. There is a large gap in research regarding active duty servicewomen (ADW) with PCOS. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to describe ADW's experience of living with PCOS and to describe the service-branch-specific differences among these women.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Moderator's guide, audiotapes, transcripts, and field notes. This was a qualitative descriptive study using focus groups and individual interviews. The David Grant Medical Center Institutional Review Board at Travis AFB, CA, USA, approved the study protocol. Women with PCOS were recruited from U.S. Air Force, Army, and Navy locations. Data were analyzed using constant comparative content analysis.

RESULTS

Twenty-three servicewomen from 19 occupations across the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps participated. Three overarching categories emerged: (1) challenges managing PCOS symptoms, (2) navigating the military health care system, and (3) navigating PCOS as a service member.

CONCLUSIONS

Servicewomen may have significant career consequences related to PCOS sequelae, such as overweight, obesity, uncontrolled menstrual cycle, and pain. Managing the myriad of symptoms can distract women while deployed, in austere conditions, or at their home stations. As one of the most common cardiometabolic, reproductive endocrinologic conditions in women, PCOS has not received the attention, awareness, education, or research necessary to sufficiently support ADW with this condition. It is imperative that evidence-based strategies are developed to inform relevant and high-quality care for these warfighters. Future qualitative studies are needed to further describe specific stressors and needs of ADW with PCOS. Future intervention studies are also needed to evaluate effective management options for ADW with PCOS.

Moving beyond Weight: A Narrative Review of the Dietary and Lifestyle Management for Reducing Cardiometabolic Risk in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrine disorder experienced by women. PCOS is a lifelong condition associated with reproductive, metabolic, and psychological presentations. PCOS is also linked with increased prevalence of cardiometabolic risk factors. While an association between body weight and PCOS has been noted, cardiometabolic risk factors are prevalent in individuals with PCOS across body weights. Currently, no consensus exists as to the most appropriate lifestyle strategy for mitigating cardiometabolic risk in PCOS. A large proportion of the literature is focused on weight loss for individuals with PCOS who are overweight or experience obesity, despite PCOS being prevalent across body sizes. The aim of this narrative review is to assess dietary and lifestyle interventions aimed at reducing cardiometabolic risk in individuals with PCOS across body sizes. A total of 51 articles are included in this review. Overall, randomized controlled trials are limited and most studies focus on weight loss, excluding individuals classified within a healthy body weight range. Studies that modified the dietary pattern without an energy deficit saw improvements in cardiometabolic risk. Thus, less restrictive dietary approaches may be effective at reducing cardiometabolic risk in this population. This review also highlights the need for more sustainable lifestyle interventions that meet the needs of individuals with PCOS of varying body weights.

Do GLP-1 Analogs Have a Place in the Treatment of PCOS? New Insights and Promising Therapies

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most prevalent endocrinopathy in women of reproductive age. This condition is characterized by hyperandrogenism and either oligo- or anovulation. PCOS patients often present comorbidities such as obesity, insulin resistance, impaired glucose metabolism, dyslipidemia, hypertension, metabolic syndrome, and an increased risk of diabetes. Given the profound implications of metabolic impairment in PCOS, the accurate diagnosis and management of these facets are imperative. The first-line approach to treatment involves lifestyle modifications, including dietary adjustments and exercise aimed at achieving weight loss, a strategy consistently emphasized across the literature. Supplementation with probiotics, vitamin D, and L-carnitine have also provided additional benefits to patients. In select cases, pharmacological interventions are needed for optimal therapeutic results. The most common medications used in PCOS include metformin, thiazolidinediones, inositols, and two classes of antidiabetic agents: dipeptidyl peptidase-IV (DPP-IV) inhibitors, and sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors. Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) are a new addition to the therapeutic arsenal for the metabolic management of PCOS. GLP-1 receptor agonists cause insulin release in a glucose-dependent manner, yielding clinical benefits such as heightened satiety, reduced appetite, and appetite regulation. GLP-1RAs have demonstrated efficacy in reducing glycated hemoglobin levels and promoting weight loss while ameliorating hyperlipidemia. Prior to initiating GLP-1RA therapy, patients should undergo screening for contraindications, including history of pancreatitis, diabetic retinopathy, or thyroid cancer. The effects of treatment should be monitored using laboratory testing and body weight measurements. Effective communication between clinician and patient should be maintained with regular check-in for a period of 6 to 12 months.

Effects of Ketogenic Diet on Reproductive Hormones in Women With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Context

Ketogenic diet has recently made a comeback as a part of lifestyle and dietary modifications in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Despite studies suggesting its beneficial effects in reversing hormonal imbalance in women with PCOS, evidence has been patchy and derived from small populations under varying conditions.

Objective

To pool evidence from clinical trials to study the effects of ketogenic diet on reproductive hormones (LH/FSH ratio, free testosterone, serum progesterone) and observe evidence of weight change.

Methods

PubMed, ScienceDirect, Scopus, and Web of Science core collection were searched for clinical trials evaluating the effects of ketogenic diet in established PCOS women consistent with the Rotterdam classification. Single- or double-arm studies that included an outcome of interest were included. Two investigators worked independently to screen potential articles and a designated investigator extracted data on study characteristics and evaluated the outcomes. Data were pooled using a random-effects model. The quality of selected studies was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool.

Results

Following ≥45 days of intervention with ketogenic diet among women with PCOS, significant improvement was observed in reproductive hormone levels, with reduced LH/FSH ratio (d -0.851; 95% CI -1.015, -0.686; P < .001), reduced serum free testosterone (d -0.223; 95% CI -0.328, -0.119; P  < .001), and an increased in serum sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) (d 9.086; 95% CI 3.379, 14.792; P = .002). Significant weight loss was unanimously observed in all included studies (d -11.56; 95% CI -14.97, -8.15; P < .001).

Conclusion

Short-term ketogenic diet potentially improved hormonal imbalances commonly associated with PCOS.

A comparison of the portfolio low-carbohydrate diet and the ketogenic diet in overweight and obese women with polycystic ovary syndrome: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most frequent endocrine disorders among women of fertile age. Women with PCOS manifest clinical symptoms like menstrual dysfunction, hirsutism, insulin resistance, and hyperinsulinemia. As excessive amounts of insulin levels directly increase ovarian production of androgens, hyperinsulinemia and insulin resistance are considered as the pathogenesis factors of PCOS. The portfolio low-carbohydrate diet (PLCD) is a plant-based diet with 40% carbohydrates combined with five cholesterol-lowering foods and nutrients. On the other hand, the ketogenic diet (KD) is a nutritional protocol with 10% carbohydrates. The purpose of this study is to determine whether PLCD or KD is more effective in alleviating PCOS symptoms.

METHODS

Forty-six overweight or obese women diagnosed with PCOS will be randomly stratified to receive either PLCD or KD for 8 weeks. Measures related to anthropometric and body composition, glucose, and insulin level, HOMA-IR, sex hormones, lipid profile, quality of life, dietary intake, physical activity, and Ferriman-Gallwey score of all participants will be accessed before and after the intervention.

DISCUSSION

Since the first line treatment of PCOS is lifestyle adjustment including diet control and exercise, there has not been determined the optimal diet for this population of women yet. Hence, the goal of conducting this study is to determine whether the PLCD or the KD could have more advantageous effects on attenuating PCOS manifestations. The result of this investigation will give us new insight into curing this disease and will provide evidence-based recommendations for prescribing an optimal diet for PCOS women.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

IRCT20200912048693N3, Trial registered 2022-12-14. https://www.irct.ir/trial/67548.

Exercise-induced irisin improves follicular dysfunction by inhibiting IRE1α-TXNIP/ROS-NLRP3 pathway in PCOS

BACKGROUND

Excessive production of androgen drives oxidative stress (OS) and inflammasome activation in ovarian granulosa cells (GCs). Therefore, the induced follicular developmental disorder is the major cause of infertility in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Exercise-induced upregulation of irisin is capable of regulating metabolism by reducing OS and inflammation. Exercise has been shown to alleviate a range of PCOS symptoms, including maintaining a normal menstrual cycle, in several clinical trials.

METHODS

Female Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats and primary ovarian cells were treated with two different androgens, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and dihydrotestosterone (DHT), to simulate a hyperandrogenic environment, followed by eight weeks of exercise training and irisin intervention. The levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), tissue inflammation and fibrosis were examined using hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining, western blot, quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR), dichlorofluorescein diacetate (DCF-DA) probe detection, immunofluorescence staining, immunohistochemistry, and Sirius red staining.

RESULTS

Exercise for eight weeks improved polycystic ovarian morphology and decreased the levels of inflammation, OS, and fibrosis in PCOS rats. Hyperandrogen increased ROS production in ovarian cells by inducing endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) and activating the inositol-requiring enzyme 1α (IRE1α)-thioredoxin-interacting protein (TXNIP)/ROS-NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) signaling pathway, further enhancing the levels of inflammation. Irisin suppressed the expression of IRE1α and its downstream targets, thus improving the ovarian dysfunction of PCOS rats induced by hyperandrogen.

CONCLUSION

Exercise can alleviate various phenotypes of PCOS rats induced by DHEA, and its therapeutic effect may be mediated by secreting beneficial myokines. IRE1α may be an important target of irisin for reducing OS and inflammation, thereby improving ovarian fibrosis.

A Review on Acupuncture Efficiency in Human Polycystic Ovary/Ovarian Syndrome

Objectives

Human Polycystic Ovary/Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), a frequent endocrine pathophysiology among women of fertile age, is associated with woman's lifespan endocrine, metabolic and psychological implications. Long-term usage side effects of allopathic strategies and their low efficacy made complementary medicine treatments a relevant subject for these patients. The main aim of this work is to review the efficiency of the acupuncture treatment reported in the latest studies on literature regarding PCOS patients.

Methods

A comprehensive literature search, in English language, about the use of acupuncture on the management of PCOS, was conducted in October 2020 using EBSCO, Cochrane, PubMed, Medline, Embase, databases for randomised and non-randomised controlled trials between 2015 and 2020 (09/2015-10/2020), following the PRISMA protocol.

Results

This research led us to an analysis, according to PICOS, of six final papers selected among 178 in total. The articles addressed distinct aspects of the PCOS condition, diverse acupuncture techniques and different main and secondary outcomes in agreement to the respective main objective. According to this review, acupuncture seems to be useful for the treatment of this debilitating and chronic health condition which affects millions of women worldwide, many of them part of the workforce in their community.

Conclusion

Despite of the display of these positive results addressing acupuncture treatments to manage PCOS major symptoms - whether they are reproductive, metabolic, or mental health features - more research is urgent. Randomized, double blinded controlled trials with improved quality design and following STRICTA and/or CONSORT recommendations are necessary to engage acupuncture as a standardized and scientific validated technique in PCOS condition.

Polycystic ovary syndrome is associated with weight-loss attempts and perception of overweight independent of BMI: a population-based cohort study

OBJECTIVE

Up to 70% of women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) have pre-obesity or obesity. The aim of this study was to investigate whether women with PCOS have more weight-loss attempts than women without PCOS, regardless of BMI. Moreover, women's weight perceptions in relation to previous weight-loss attempts were evaluated.

METHODS

A population-based birth cohort study included women with (n = 278) and without PCOS (control individuals, n = 1560) who were examined at ages 31 and 46 years with questionnaires and clinical examinations.

RESULTS

Women with PCOS had more weight-loss attempts compared with control individuals at age 31 (47% vs. 34%, p < 0.001) and 46 years (63% vs. 47%, p < 0.001). At age 46 years, PCOS was associated with multiple weight-loss attempts in the adjusted model (odds ratio: 1.43 [95% CI: 1.00-2.03], p = 0.05). The perception of having overweight was more prevalent in those with PCOS, even among participants with normal weight, at age 31 (PCOS 47% vs. control 34%, p = 0.014) and 46 years (PCOS 60% vs. control 39%, p = 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Women with PCOS were more likely to have experienced multiple weight-loss attempts and a perception of having overweight compared with control individuals, regardless of obesity status.

Effects of Sitagliptin on Metabolic Indices and Hormone Levels in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: a Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

To evaluate the effects of sitagliptin on the metabolic indices and hormone levels in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, WanFang Data, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published up to March 2022. Eligible studies were identified based on the inclusion criteria. The primary outcomes included the homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), body mass index (BMI), and total testosterone level (TT). Other outcomes included levels of sex hormones, glucose, and lipid metabolism. Forty-five studies were initially identified, and 6 RCTs with 394 patients were finally included in this study. The meta-analysis results suggest that sitagliptin improved HOMA-IR (WMD =  - 0.35; 95% CI (- 0.62, - 0.08); P = 0.01), BMI (WMD =  - 1.27; 95% CI (- 1.76, - 0.77); P < 0.00001), TT (SMD =  - 0.66; 95% CI (- 1.25, - 0.07); P = 0.03), and HDL-C (SMD = 0.11; 95% CI (0.03, 0.18); P = 0.005). No significant differences were observed between the sitagliptin and control groups in other outcomes and in terms of adverse events. Evidence from meta-analyses suggests that sitagliptin was superior in improving insulin sensitivity, total serum testosterone, high-density lipoprotein, and body mass index. However, due to the limitations of published studies, it is difficult to draw a definite conclusion. Larger, higher-quality studies are needed to evaluate the efficacy of sitagliptin in women with PCOS.

Association between body mass index, weight loss and the chance of pregnancy in women with polycystic ovary syndrome and overweight or obesity: a retrospective cohort study in the UK

STUDY QUESTION

What are the associations between baseline BMI (Study 1) and change in body weight (Study 2) with the likelihood of pregnancy in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

SUMMARY ANSWER

In women with PCOS, higher baseline BMI was associated with a lower chance of pregnancy; however, weight loss was associated with an increased chance of pregnancy versus maintaining a stable weight or gaining weight.

WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY

Two studies in large cohorts of Danish women with the intention to become pregnant showed a decline in fecundability ratios with higher BMI. Furthermore, a meta-analysis found that overweight/obesity significantly worsened metabolic and reproductive outcomes in women with PCOS.

STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION

Data were extracted from the UK Clinical Practice Research Datalink GOLD database. Patients included women aged 18-45 years with BMI ≥18.5 (Study 1) or ≥25 kg/m2 (Study 2) at time of PCOS diagnosis (index date). The primary outcome was the time to first pregnancy recorded during 36-months' follow-up, analysed with Cox proportional hazard models and presented as hazard ratios (HRs).

PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS

Study 1 included 9955 women with PCOS. Study 2 included 7593 women with PCOS and median BMI of 34.0 kg/m2.

MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE

Higher BMI was associated with a lower chance of pregnancy in the 3 years following diagnosis. It was estimated that 41% of women with normal weight (18.5-24.9 kg/m2) would become pregnant compared to 17% of women with obesity class III (BMI ≥40.0 kg/m2) during follow-up. Furthermore, the chance of pregnancy for women with obesity class III was estimated to be 63% lower than for women with normal weight, with the same age and glycaemic status (HR 0.37, 95% CI 0.31-0.44; P < 0.0001). A significant inverse association was found between BMI change and chance of pregnancy: 10% weight loss was estimated to increase the chance of pregnancy by 68% for women with baseline BMI of 40 kg/m2 (HR 1.68, 95% CI 1.49-1.90).

LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION

Multiple factors influence the chance of pregnancy (the ability and willingness to become pregnant), which was addressed by exclusion criteria employed. The real-world nature of the study means that use of non-prescription contraceptives was not available. Bias may have been introduced by the fact that only around 40% of women with PCOS in the CPRD GOLD database had their BMI recorded during the year prior to PCOS diagnosis. BMI categories used in the analyses may not be applicable to women of all ethnicities. The study population was only representative of women in the UK and results may not be generalizable to other regions. PCOS diagnoses were based on codes entered into the system by primary care providers, and no information was available regarding the criteria used for diagnosis, although symptoms used to diagnose PCOS have not changed over time.

WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS

Our observations provide further evidence of the benefits of weight loss in women with overweight/obesity and PCOS who are seeking to become pregnant.

STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S)

Novo Nordisk A/S. A.H.B. declares fees for consultancy from Novo Nordisk. P.N.L. and C.L.H. are employees of Novo Nordisk. V.S. and A.V. are employees of, and hold shares in, Novo Nordisk.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

N/A.

Capability, Opportunity, and Motivation-Identifying Constructs for Increasing Physical Activity Behaviours in Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the commonest endocrinopathy in reproductive-aged women. Because increased adiposity is pivotal in the severity of PCOS-related symptoms, treatment usually incorporates increasing energy expenditure through physical activity (PA). This study aimed to understand the reasons why women with PCOS engage in PA/exercise, which could support the development of targeted behavioural interventions in this at-risk population. Validated questionnaires were administered for self-reported PA levels, quality of life, mental health, illness perception, sleep quality, and capability, opportunity, and motivation (COM) for PA. Using categorical PA data, outcomes were compared between groups; ordinal logistic regression (OLR) was used to identify whether COM could explain PA categorisation. A total of 333 participants were eligible; favourable differences were reported for body mass index, depression, mental wellbeing, self-rated health, illness perception, and insomnia severity for those reporting the highest PA levels. COM scores increased according to PA categorisation, whilst OLR identified conscious and automatic motivation as explaining the largest PA variance. The most active participants reported favourable data for most outcomes. However, determining whether health is protected by higher PA or ill health is a barrier to PA was not possible. These findings suggest that future behavioural interventions should be targeted at increasing patient motivation.

Co-morbid Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome with Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension

The link between polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) has long been debated. Historically, there is a wide range of reported occurrence of both conditions, being between 15% and 64%. Both conditions share a common phenotype. The awareness that in a new large data study that there is a 1.5-fold increased prevalence of diagnosed PCOS in participants with IIH as compared to the controls is important. Assessment for the potential of co-morbid PCOS in women with IIH is important as this may enable optimisation of weight and fertility management.

Assessment of Eating Disorders and Eating Behavior to Improve Treatment Outcomes in Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

The essential role of the frequent coexistence of mental disorders and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is being increasingly recognized in the management of PCOS patients since it influences the success of weight loss interventions. Patients frequently experience disrupted eating behaviors, evidenced by the high prevalence of eating disorders in this population. Therefore, assessment and potential modification of eating disorders and eating-related behavior might be especially relevant to improve obesity treatment outcomes in this population, which remains the most efficient causal treatment in PCOS patients with high metabolic risk. Following a literature overview on common eating disorders and eating behaviors in PCOS, the aim of this review was to explore the prevalence and underlying mechanisms behind those occurrences. Understanding the clinical relevance of those associations and the addition of the assessments of eating disorders as well as eating phenotypes, eating chronotypes, and eating content as essential determinants of eating behavior could aid in the successful management of women with PCOS. In addition, the review also covers the potential of using eating disorders and eating behavior as a tool for the personalization of obesity treatment in PCOS.

Acupuncture in Women with Human Polycystic Ovary/Ovarian Syndrome: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial

(1) Background: Human polycystic ovary/ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is linked to endocrine, metabolic, and psychological complications. We propose a randomized controlled pilot study for an acupuncture protocol regarding the management of PCOS symptoms based on TCM diagnosis; (2) Methods: We will randomly allocate 120 women diagnosed with PCOS into two groups. The study group will be treated with acupuncture for points known to act upon the autonomous regulation of the hormonal, metabolic and emotional components. (3) Results and Conclusions: We expect to provide evidence of high methodological quality related to the effects and safety of an acupuncture protocol based on the perspective of a TCM diagnostic.

Development and validation of a prediction model for depression in adolescents with polycystic ovary syndrome: A study protocol

Introduction

The high prevalence and severity of depression in adolescents with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a critical health threat that must be taken seriously. The identification of high-risk groups for depression in adolescents with PCOS is essential to preventing its development and improving its prognosis. At present, the routine screening of depression in adolescents with PCOS is mainly performed using scales, and there is no early identification method for high-risk groups of PCOS depression in adolescents. It is necessary to use a warning model to identify high-risk groups for depression with PCOS in adolescents.

Methods and analysis

Model development and validation will be conducted using a retrospective study. The study will involve normal adolescent girls as the control group and adolescent PCOS patients as the experimental group. We will collect not only general factors such as individual susceptibility factors, biological factors, and psychosocial environmental factors of depression in adolescence, but will also examine the pathological factors, illness perception factors, diagnosis and treatment factors, and symptom-related factors of PCOS, as well as the outcome of depression. LASSO will be used to fit a multivariate warning model of depression risk. Data collected between January 2022 and August 2022 will be used to develop and validate the model internally, and data collected between September 2022 and December 2022 will be used for external validation. We will use the C-statistic to measure the model's discrimination, the calibration plot to measure the model's risk prediction ability for depression, and the nomogram to visualize the model.

Discussion

The ability to calculate the absolute risk of depression outcomes in adolescents with PCOS would enable early and accurate predictions of depression risk among adolescents with PCOS, and provide the basis for the formulation of depression prevention and control strategies, which have important theoretical and practical implications.

Trial registration number

[ChiCTR2100050123]; Pre-results.

The Interaction of Obesity and Reproductive Function in Adolescents

Obesity is increasing worldwide, including in pediatrics. Adequate nutrition is required for initiation of menses, and there is a clear secular trend toward earlier pubertal onset and menarche in females in countries around the globe. Similar findings of earlier pubertal start are suggested in males. However, as individuals and populations have crossed into over-nutritional states including overweight and obesity, the effect of excess weight on disrupting reproductive function has become apparent. Hypothalamic hypogonadism and polycystic ovary syndrome are two conditions where reproductive function appears to directly relate to excess weight. Clinical findings in individuals with certain polygenic and monogenic obesity syndromes, which also have reproductive disruptions, have helped elucidate neurologic pathways that are common to both. Clinical endocrinopathies such as hypothyroidism or panhypopituitarism also aide in the understanding of the role of the endocrine system in weight gain. Understanding the intersection of obesity and reproductive function may lead to future therapies which can treat both conditions.

The role of dietitian in the multidisciplinary treatment of PCOS

It is well accepted by the medical literature that polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is an extremely heterogeneous condition and that a multidisciplinary approach, involving gynecologists, endocrinologists, primary healthcare providers, mental health professionals, and nutritional professionals, especially dietitians, is fundamental to provide an immediate care and to counteract long-term risk factors related to the comorbidity of PCOS. Although lifestyle modifications are the first step intervention in the treatment of PCOS, unfortunately, the involvement of dietitian in clinical practice remains sporadic. The goal of this viewpoint is to put a greater emphasis on the role of dietitian in the management of PCOS by highlighting frequently faced difficulties in the clinical settings and the importance of a three-step nutritional care: accurate assessment; lifestyle, nutritional, and supplementary intervention; long-term follow-up. The intention is to raise awareness among dietitians themselves and other health providers as well as to express an exceeding necessity of evidence-based guidelines formulated specifically for nutritional professionals, which would allow a uniform approach with respect to heterogeneity and complexity of PCOS at the international level.

Metabolic health during a randomized controlled lifestyle intervention in women with PCOS

CONTEXT

Women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) have an increased risk of metabolic syndrome (MetS). Both PCOS and MetS are associated with excess weight.

OBJECTIVE

To examine the effect of a three-component lifestyle intervention (LSI) with or without short message service (SMS+ or SMS-, respectively) on the prevalence and severity of MetS and metabolic parameters, compared to care as usual (CAU).

DESIGN

Randomized controlled trial.

METHODS

Women diagnosed with PCOS and a BMI >25 kg/m2 (n = 183) were either assigned to a 1-year three-component (cognitive behavioural therapy, diet, and exercise) LSI, with or without SMS support, or to CAU which provided weight-loss advice only. Main outcome measures included changes in the prevalence of MetS, the continuous MetS severity z-score (cMetS z-score), metabolic parameters, and the impact of weight loss.

RESULTS

After 1 year, the decrease in the cMetS z-score was greater in the SMS+ group than the CAU group (-0.39, P = 0.015). The prevalence of MetS changed with -21.6% (P = 0.037), -16.5% (P = 0.190), and +7.0% (P = 0.509) in both LSI groups and CAU group, respectively. A post hoc analysis for both LSI groups combined vs CAU resulted in a MetS difference of -25.9% (P = 0.046). Moreover, weight loss per se resulted in significantly favourable effects on all metabolic parameters.

CONCLUSIONS

This three-component LSI was more successful in improving metabolic health compared to CAU. Therefore, we recommend this intervention to women with PCOS and excess weight, provided that a clinically relevant weight loss is being pursued.

Weight Management in Adolescents with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common condition that clinically presents during adolescence. PCOS is associated with increased rates of overweight and obesity, as well as higher rates of metabolic disease, especially type 2 diabetes. Weight loss decreases PCOS symptoms and risk for metabolic disease. The goal of this review is to evaluate recent studies describing the hormonal, metabolic, and weight effects of different weight loss strategies: dietary, physical activity, pharmacotherapy, bariatric surgery, mood modification, and sleep.

RECENT FINDINGS

Calorie restriction continues to be supported as the primary nutrition intervention to achieve weight loss in individuals with PCOS, and a dietary macronutrient composition with lower compared to higher glycemic carbohydrates may be more effective. There is limited data that vitamins, nutraceuticals, and probiotics may improve hormonal and metabolic outcomes. Most types of physical activity are effective in improving outcomes in PCOS and lowering weight. Whereas there are promising data on anti-obesity medications such as glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists in adults with PCOS and adolescents with obesity, further work is needed to know if these therapies are effective in youth with PCOS. Research is lacking on the effectiveness of other anti-obesity medications in PCOS. Bariatric surgery is especially promising for decreasing weight in adults and youth, and reversing type 2 diabetes in youth, though PCOS data are lacking. Treatment of depression in adolescents with insulin resistance and women with PCOS is associated with improved weight loss. Adolescents with PCOS and obesity may have greater sleep-related risks including circadian misalignment and obstructive sleep apnea, interventions for which have not yet been conducted. Clinical trials on weight loss strategies in adolescents with PCOS remain limited, with most information inferred from studies in women with PCOS or adolescents with obesity. However, there are multiple options to optimize weight loss in dietary, activity, pharmacotherapy, bariatric surgery, mood modification, and sleep domains.

Are Dietary Indices Associated with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and Its Phenotypes? A Preliminary Study

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex hormonal disorder which impairs ovarian function. The adherence to healthy dietary patterns and physical exercise are the first line of recommended treatment for PCOS patients, but it is yet unclear what type of diet is more adequate. In this case-control study, we explored associations between adherence to five dietary quality indices and the presence of PCOS. We enrolled 126 cases of PCOS and 159 controls living in Murcia (Spain). Diagnostic of PCOS and its phenotypes were established following the Rotterdam criteria (hyperandrogenism (H), oligoanovulation (O), polycystic ovaries morphology (POM)). We used a validated food frequency questionnaires to calculate the scores of five dietary indices: alternate Healthy Eating index (AHEI), AHEI-2010, relative Mediterranean Dietary Score (rMED), alternate Mediterranean Dietary Score (aMED) and Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH). We used multivariable logistic regression to estimate adjusted odds ratios and confidence intervals. In the multivariable analysis, AHEI-2010 index was inversely associated with Hyperandrogenism + Oligoanovulation PCOS phenotype (OR_Q3 vs. _Q1 = 0.1; 95% CI: (0.0; 0.9); P_{for trend} = 0.02). We did not find any statistical significant association between dietary indices and total anovulatory or ovulatory PCOS. However, further studies with higher sample sizes exploring these associations among the diverse phenotypes of PCOS are highly warranted.