Association Between Vitamin D Deficiency and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Cross-Sectional Study at Mubarak Hospital, Peshawar

Abstract

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most prevalent endocrine disorder in women of reproductive age, with significant implications beyond reproductive health, including metabolic and psychological challenges. Vitamin D deficiency is commonly observed in women with PCOS and is associated with insulin resistance, a key feature of this condition. This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial aimed to evaluate the effects of vitamin D supplementation on metabolic and endocrine parameters in 180 premenopausal women diagnosed with PCOS and exhibiting vitamin D insufficiency (serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] < 75 nmol/L). Participants received either vitamin D or a placebo for 24 weeks, with follow-up assessments conducted at 12 weeks to explore short-term effects. The primary outcome was the change in plasma glucose area under the curve (AUCgluc), while secondary outcomes included serum testosterone levels and menstrual frequency. Preliminary findings indicate that vitamin D supplementation may lead to significant improvements in metabolic profiles and endocrine abnormalities associated with PCOS. Further analysis is required to establish the robustness of these findings and solidify vitamin D's role as a potential adjunct therapy in managing PCOS.