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Semin Reprod Med 2009; 27(4): 306-315
DOI: 10.1055/s-0029-1225258
© Thieme Medical Publishers

Androgens in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: The Role of Exercise and Diet

Francesco Giallauria1 , Stefano Palomba2 , Carlo Vigorito1 , Maria Giovanna Tafuri3 , Annamaria Colao4 , Gaetano Lombardi4 , Francesco Orio4 , 5
  • 1Department of Clinical Medicine, Cardiovascular and Immunological Sciences, University of Naples “Federico II,” Naples, Italy
  • 2Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Catanzaro “Magna Graecia,” Catanzaro, Italy
  • 3Teaching and Methods of Sportive Activity, Faculty of Exercise Sciences, University of Naples “Parthenope,” Naples, Italy
  • 4Department of Molecular & Clinical Endocrinology and Oncology, University of Naples “Federico II,” Naples, Italy
  • 5Endocrinology, Faculty of Exercise Sciences, University of Naples “Parthenope,” Naples, Italy
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Publication History

Publication Date:
15 June 2009 (online)

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ABSTRACT

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrine disorder in premenopausal women and is characterized by chronic ovulatory dysfunction and hyperandrogenism. Clinical studies have shown that hyperandrogenism is linked with insulin resistance/metabolic syndrome in PCOS women. This review article summarizes the several potential mechanisms for the association of androgen excess with insulin resistance, including both direct and indirect actions of androgens on insulin target tissues. This review article also focuses on the beneficial effects of exercise training and diet on glucose metabolism and hyperandrogenism in PCOS women, pointing out that whether in conjunction with pharmacotherapy or as a stand-alone treatment, diet and exercise training represent a fundamental strategy in the treatment of PCOS women.

KEYWORDS

Polycystic ovary syndrome - exercise training - diet - hyperandrogenism - insulin resistance

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Orio FrancescoM.D. Ph.D. 

Department of Molecular & Clinical Endocrinology and Oncology

University of Naples “Federico II,” Naples, Italy

Email: francescoorio@virgilio.it