Fetal Metabolic Programming in the Etiology of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome
August 2023
in “
Revista Contemporânea
”
TLDR Early life factors, including a mother's health and environment, can affect the chances of developing polycystic ovary syndrome later in life.
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a prevalent endocrine disorder in women, is significantly influenced by fetal metabolic programming, which is shaped by maternal, nutritional, genetic, and environmental factors. The review identifies several factors linked to the development of PCOS, including placental pathologies, maternal metabolism, fetal hypoxia, intrauterine growth restriction, low birth weight, maternal hyperandrogenism, hyperinsulinemia, insulin resistance, and maternal exposure to plastic components like bisphenol A. The study emphasizes the importance of careful management during pregnancy to lower the risk of adolescents developing PCOS and related comorbidities in the future.