Menstrual Cycle Alterations During Adolescence: Early Expression of Metabolic Syndrome and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

The study investigated the relationship between menstrual patterns and the risk of metabolic syndrome (MS) and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in 59 Brazilian adolescents aged 12-19. It found that those with irregular menstrual cycles had a significantly higher prevalence of PCOS, MS, and related criteria such as increased waist circumference, higher blood sugar and insulin levels after glucose intake, higher HOMA-IR (a measure of insulin resistance), and higher triglycerides. Additionally, these adolescents had lower insulin sensitivity and HDL cholesterol levels. The study concluded that irregular menstrual cycles are associated with a higher risk of developing PCOS and MS, suggesting that monitoring menstrual patterns can be an important tool for early identification and potential intervention in adolescents at risk for these conditions.