Ovarian Hypertension: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

The document from June 2011 examines Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and its association with hypertension and cardiovascular risks. It highlights that PCOS, a common endocrine disorder among women of reproductive age, is characterized by anovulation, androgen excess, and insulin resistance. The prevalence of PCOS varies based on the diagnostic criteria used, with obesity being a common exacerbating factor in 30% to 70% of cases. The syndrome is linked to a genetic predisposition and is associated with metabolic disorders that may lead to hypertension and cardiovascular disease. Women with PCOS have a higher prevalence of metabolic syndrome, about twice as high as the general population, and are more likely to have dyslipidemia, characterized by low HDL cholesterol, small LDL particles, and high triglycerides. The relationship between PCOS and hypertension is complex, with some studies finding an association independent of BMI, while others do not. The document also notes that women with PCOS are at an increased risk of hypertension during pregnancy and that the sympathetic nervous system may play a role in the pathophysiology of hypertension in PCOS. Treatment options for PCOS, including lifestyle changes and medications, may also help manage hypertension, and monitoring blood pressure is crucial due to the increased cardiovascular risk.