The effectiveness of lifestyle modification on women with polycystic ovary syndrome: A scientific review

Background: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex endocrine and metabolic disorder with an estimated prevalence of 4-25% depending on diagnostic criteria. This syndrome has significant and diverse clinical consequences associated with reproductive problems (menses disorders, failure to ovulate, late menopause, endometrial cancer and infertility), metabolic problems (insulin resistance, diabetes type 2, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases), physical problems (central obesity, acne, hirsutism and hair loss) and psychological problems (depression, stress and anxiety). Obesity, as one of the most important symptoms of this syndrome, alone is a risk factor for many diseases that occurs in more than 50% of women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Lifestyle is combination of behavioral patterns and habits; and various factors affect lifestyle of obese women.Objective: The aim of this study was review of effect of lifestyle modification on women with polycystic ovary syndrome.Materials and Methods: 47 related articles were reviewed from 2010 to 2018 with the keywords of polycystic ovary syndrome, lifestyle, diet, physical activity and sleep quality from resources: PubMed, Google Scholar, Science Direct, Wiley Online Library and Springer.Results: In the majority of studies, method was interventional- clinical trials and also 12 review articles were considered. All papers had examined the effect of healthy lifestyle on polycystic ovary syndrome, that according to, Physical activity through weight loss and reduction in body mass index have beneficial effects on metabolic, hormonal, ovarian and menstrual parameters, moreover; physical activity improve mental health and throughout improve quality of life in these patients. Also, dietary regeneration through caloric restriction affect improving reproductive and metabolic disturbances. Adequate sleep in suitable condition is helpful in improving the quality of life of these patients through adjusting the levels of neurohormones.Conclusion: Due to the positive effect of lifestyle modification as an inexpensive and non-invasive method, counseling based on lifestyle modification along with medical management is recommended to patients with polycystic ovary syndrome.

Keywords:

Polycystic ovary syndrome , Lifestyle , Diet , Physical activity , Sleep quality