Endocrine Abstracts

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is an endocrinopathy affecting 5–10% of women. The PCOS symptomatology spectrum includes compromised fertility, dermatological conditions and metabolic dysregulation, the predominant cause of which is excess androgen production. PCOS is associated with increased risk of developing features of the metabolic syndrome which is exacerbated by the fact between 40 and 80% of PCOS diagnosed women are estimated to be obese. Achieving modest weight loss can improve fertility and dermatological conditions including acne and hirsutism, however for many PCOS diagnosed women losing weight and/or sustaining weight loss is challenging. Individual experience of PCOS symptomatology and its milieu, which has consequences for quality of life and emotional wellbeing, may itself be a promoter of weight gain and a barrier to weight loss. In a recent study examining female reproductive and metabolic health, women of reproductive age were invited to answer questions about their general, reproductive and metabolic health. Following the initial data collection phase, follow up interviews were carried out with women diagnosed with PCOS to examine in depth their experiences managing their weight and investigate common predictors of weight gain. Themes reported include control over body weight, lifestyle practices adopted to maintain weight, knowledge of energy balance regulation, sources of support and impact on emotional wellbeing. This on-going work will contribute to the knowledge and understanding of the health service needs of obese women diagnosed with PCOS and identify if specific factors should be considered when designing future strategies for intervention.

Declaration of funding: 2010 Society of Endocrinology Early Career Grant Award.