A Literature Review of the Effects of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome on Cardiovascular Health
TLDR PCOS can harm heart health by increasing risks like high blood pressure and diabetes, but treatments like birth control and lifestyle changes can help.
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder that leads to excess production of androgens, causing various complications including effects on cardiovascular health. A review of research over 30 years shows an adverse relationship between PCOS and cardiovascular health, increasing the risk of hypertension, blood vessel/artery damage, metabolic disturbances like diabetes, dyslipidemia, and insulin resistance, and negative effects on hormones such as insulin and androgen levels. However, treatments like oral contraception, lifestyle changes, and herbal medications can reverse these effects. The results are not universally applicable due to the nature of PCOS, and more research is needed to understand other biological factors and social determinants in this relationship. The review calls for further studies on the long-term effects of PCOS to improve treatment processes and awareness of potential health outcomes.
