Effects of physical activity in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract Objective To evaluate the effects of aerobic and resistance exercise on body mass index (BMI), insulin levels, lipid profiles, and hormonal parameters in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Data sources We searched PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase databases for publications up to September 2024. Fully published articles involving reproductive-age women diagnosed with PCOS were included. Study selection Randomized controlled trials comparing supervised aerobic or resistance exercise to no intervention in women diagnosed with PCOS based on Rotterdam or NIH criteria were included. The Rayyan Systematic Review tool was used to organize study data. Data collection Data extraction was conducted independently by two reviewers. Meta-analysis employed random-effects modeling. Data synthesis Ten randomized controlled trials with 382 women were analyzed. Aerobic exercise interventions (12–24 weeks) reduced BMI, waist circumference, insulin levels, total cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein. Effects on fasting glucose, high-density lipoprotein, and triglycerides varied. Hormonal assessments showed reduced testosterone and increased sex hormone-binding globulin in some studies. Resistance exercise improved lean body mass and reduced body fat percentage but showed minimal effects on hormonal parameters. Meta-analysis revealed aerobic exercise decreased insulin, cholesterol, and triglycerides compared to no intervention, while other metabolic and hormonal markers showed inconsistent changes. Conclusion Aerobic and resistance exercise improve anthropometric measures, metabolic health, and hormonal balance in women with PCOS. These findings highlight exercise as a valuable therapeutic strategy for managing PCOS and enhancing overall health outcomes.