Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome: Effect of Hormones, Associated Comorbidities and Recent Advances in Therapy

Abstract

This study addresses the prevalent endocrine disorder, Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), affecting women of reproductive age. The research aims to explore the epidemiology, etiology, genetic factors, transmission patterns, environmental influences, hormonal imbalances, and comorbidities associated with PCOS. The methodology involves a comprehensive review of literature, including studies on PCOS prevalence, diagnostic criteria, phenotype classification, neuroendocrine links, genetic markers, environmental and lifestyle factors, heavy metal exposure, oxidative stress, follicular ER stress, hormonal imbalances, gut hormones, and adipose tissue dysfunction in PCOS. Results point to PCOS having a multigenetic basis, being transmitted across generations, and being influenced by environmental variables. Hormonal imbalances, including androgen excess, insulin resistance, and dysregulation of gonadotropin hormones, are significant in PCOS pathophysiology. The study also discusses the impact of PCOS on infertility, psychological stress, thyroid dysfunction, insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, diabetes,and obesity. The implications of this research highlight the need for a comprehensive strategy to managing PCOS, considering genetic predispositions, environmental exposures, lifestyle modifications, and hormonal imbalances. It also discussed alternative therapies. such as yoga, tai chi, qigong, acupuncture, and Chinese herbal medicine, and discusses the current treatment options for PCOS, including meditative stress reduction, melatonin, and cryptotanshinone.