Long-Term Effects of Treatment Modalities on Metabolic Health, Fertility Outcomes, and Cardiovascular Risks in Lean Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): A Systematic Review

Abstract Oligomenorrhea with different degrees of follicular and adrenal hyperandrogenism are the hallmarks of the condition of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). For some of the women in their reproductive years, this endocrine illness is incredibly prevalent and comprises a variety of disorders. There are a set of symptoms, such as hirsutism, acne, and insulin resistance, for identifying the characteristics of PCOS. Various treatment modalities have been opted for over the years for the treatment and management of this condition, among which metformin and flutamide are the most prevalent, along with lifestyle modifications as prevalent recommendations to patients. Weight management for obese patients is the most challenging aspect of PCOS management. Still, similar findings are found in women with lean physiology or a normal BMI, indicating that PCOS symptoms prevail and occur irrespective of the BMI, but obese or overweight women face more problems. We determined the long-term effects of treatment modalities on PCOS symptoms and their improvement. Metformin was reported to primarily increase the blood levels of glucose as well as BMI. Blood pressure was also maintained among various researchers, and DHEAS levels were also altered along with serum sex hormone-binding globulin in the plasma of patients undergoing treatments specific for PCOS patients with a normal BMI or lean PCOS. Further studies with more extensive parameters being employed need to be conducted for the determination of the exact mechanism and cause of the disease to ease the treatment process.