A 28-year-old woman with a BMI of 28 kg/m² and confirmed PCOS by Rotterdam criteria asks about the role of weight loss. She currently weighs 80 kg. How much weight loss is required to restore spontaneous ovulation in overweight women with PCOS?
- A 1-2% of body weight
- B 5-10% of body weight ✓
- C 15-20% of body weight
- D Weight loss does not restore ovulation in PCOS
Correct answer: B. 5-10% of body weight
Explanation
Weight loss of 5-10% of body weight in overweight and obese women with PCOS has been shown to restore ovulation and improve metabolic and reproductive outcomes in multiple studies. This degree of weight loss reduces insulin resistance, lowers androgen levels, and improves ovulatory function. It is the first-line lifestyle intervention recommended before pharmacological ovulation induction in overweight PCOS patients.
Reference: ESHRE PCOS Guideline, 2023 ed.
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Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.