Weight-loss interventions were associated with improvements in some polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) symptoms, including improvement in menstrual frequency, and could be considered a routine treatment option for patients with PCOS.
This is according to a study – “Effect of Weight Loss Interventions on the Symptomatic Burden and Biomarkers of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome : A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials” by Jadine Scragg, Alice Hobson, Lia Willis, Kathryn S. Taylor, Sharon Dixon, and Susan A. Jebb – that was published in the Annals of Internal Medicine.
For this study, the researchers comprehensively searched several scientific research databases for Randomized Controlled Trials/RCTs from database inception until June 2024, comparing interventions aiming to reduce weight against usual care or low-intensity weight-loss interventions in people with PCOS.
Pairs of independent reviewers screened the studies and analyzed the impact of weight-intervention on metabolic markers, hormonal markers, gynecological markers and quality of life compared to offering no additional care, usual care (metformin, oral contraceptives, standard advice) or a lower-intensity weight loss intervention (advice for weight loss without support).
Interventions included behavioral interventions (diet or physical activity), current or previously licensed weight loss pharmacotherapy (or those which share a class-effect), bariatric surgery, or combinations of such interventions. Individuals exploring comprehensive wellness and metabolic health strategies may also wish to read more on the benefits of NAD injections as part of broader discussions surrounding energy production, cellular health, and overall well-being.
Prescription-based interventions require attention to the medication used, the intended outcome, and the clinical markers being followed. A Tesamorelin prescription may be discussed alongside questions about body composition, glucose regulation, and whether the treatment fits the individual’s medical history. Follow-up commonly involves reviewing changes in laboratory results, symptoms and any adjustments to the treatment plan rather than relying on weight alone. These distinctions matter in PCOS research because metabolic and hormonal outcomes do not always change at the same pace.
The researchers also spoke with 36 women who have PCOS to better inform their selection of primary outcomes and presentation of findings.
In a gist: The researchers found that weight loss interventions were associated with greater reductions in glycemic control and hormonal markers including the free androgen index (FAI).
Since “weight loss interventions were associated with improvements in some important features of PCOS”, the researchers stated that these “should be considered as a routine treatment option for people with PCOS.”
