TLDR Obesity worsens Polycystic Ovary Syndrome symptoms, and weight loss is a key treatment.
The document from 2007 examines the link between obesity and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), a condition prevalent in reproductive-aged women that is often undiagnosed and associated with increased risks of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes mellitus. It reports that PCOS is characterized by hyperandrogenism, hyperinsulinemia, and frequently obesity, with a study indicating a 28% prevalence of PCOS in overweight and obese Spanish women. The document stresses the importance of early diagnosis and treatment to manage metabolic and cardiovascular risks and the emotional impact of PCOS symptoms. It also discusses the pathogenesis of PCOS, its clinical features, and the exacerbation of symptoms due to obesity. Weight loss is recommended as the primary therapeutic option. Furthermore, the document outlines the metabolic and cardiovascular risks linked to PCOS, especially concerning abdominal obesity and insulin resistance. It also notes that 75% of women with PCOS meet the criteria for metabolic syndrome, with a high rate of impaired glucose tolerance and T2DM at initial evaluation. The role of adipokines in obesity and PCOS is discussed, with findings of altered adiponectin and resistin levels in PCOS patients, although their exact role remains unclear. Treatment should be individualized, with weight loss as the first step for obese patients. The document also reviews the use of metformin and oral contraceptive pills for managing PCOS, highlighting the importance of recognizing and treating PCOS to potentially save lives.
278 citations
,
August 2004 in “Best Practice & Research in Clinical Obstetrics & Gynaecology”
Polycystic ovaries are defined by having 12 or more small follicles in each ovary and are found in up to 33% of women, while Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is the most common hormone disorder in women of reproductive age, potentially increasing risk of obesity, diabetes, and heart diseases.
A female with PCOS and androgenetic alopecia is starting treatment with oral Minoxidil, topical Minoxidil 5% with finasteride, and plans to add mesotherapy. She previously tried anti-androgenic contraceptive pills but couldn't tolerate them and is using Myo Inositol for weight management.
OP shares their experience with PCOS-related hair loss, highlighting that addressing vitamin D and ferritin deficiencies, managing hormones with spironolactone, and using gentle hair care products helped improve their condition. They advise against relying on "miracle" hair oils and emphasize the importance of medical evaluation and a combined approach to treatment.
A 30-year-old female with PCOS and male pattern baldness is frustrated with her endocrinologist's recommendation of only Spironolactone and minoxidil, feeling that dutasteride, finasteride, and progesterone would be more effective. Other users suggest various online sources for treatments, warn against self-medicating due to potential risks, and recommend seeking a specialized endocrinologist or considering additional treatments like Inositol, Berberine, and dermaneedling.
A 20-year-old female with PCOS is experiencing hair loss and excessive facial hair. She is using ketoconazole and caffeine shampoos, microneedling, and considering anti-androgens like finasteride, but is cautious about minoxidil due to facial hair concerns.
High sugar diets may worsen hair loss by increasing 5α-reductase activity and androgen levels, especially in women with PCOS. A low sugar diet might reduce scalp DHT levels, similar to finasteride, but genetics also significantly influence hair loss.
Female with PCOS experiences receding and thinning hair, wants dutasteride instead of spironolactone. Discusses desire to reduce DHT without losing libido.
