Efficacy of dietary changes compared to current pharmacological treatments for PCOS

Date of Award

Spring 2021

Degree Name

Master of Medical Science (Physician Assistant)

Department

Physician Assistant; College of Health Sciences

First Advisor

Stephanie Pillai

Abstract

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) affects 5-10% of women between the ages of 15 and 44. These patients present with elevated androgenic hormones, excess hair growth, weight gain and menstrual disorders. Women with PCOS are at higher risk for infertility, metabolic syndrome and heart and vascular diseases. Standard treatment for these patients includes prescription oral contraceptives (OCP) and metformin, but OCP have side effects of increased coagulopathy and risk of cardiovascular disease in an already at risk population and other adverse side effects. As even a modest weight loss of 2-5% has been shown to reduce symptoms, this paper aims to examine if a nutrition-focused diet is equally or more effective for weight loss and reduction of PCOS symptoms compared to current pharmacological treatments.

Additional Files

Poster- Efficacy of dietary changes compared to current pharmacological treatments for PCOS.pdf (754 kB)
Poster- Efficacy of dietary changes compared to current pharmacological treatments for PCOS

References- PICO.docx (18 kB)
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Efficacy of dietary changes compared to current pharmacological treatments for PCOS

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) affects 5-10% of women between the ages of 15 and 44. These patients present with elevated androgenic hormones, excess hair growth, weight gain and menstrual disorders. Women with PCOS are at higher risk for infertility, metabolic syndrome and heart and vascular diseases. Standard treatment for these patients includes prescription oral contraceptives (OCP) and metformin, but OCP have side effects of increased coagulopathy and risk of cardiovascular disease in an already at risk population and other adverse side effects. As even a modest weight loss of 2-5% has been shown to reduce symptoms, this paper aims to examine if a nutrition-focused diet is equally or more effective for weight loss and reduction of PCOS symptoms compared to current pharmacological treatments.