The relationship between polycystic ovary syndrome and irritable bowel syndrome

Abstract

Introduction: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) causes endocrine disorders that affect the functioning of the reproductive system and the body's metabolic system. Bowel movement disorders and abdominal pain are common complaints of PCOS patients. Few studies have been performed on the relationship between PCOS and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and the association between the two syndromes is unclear. Material and Method: In the study, 72 patients were enrolled at gynecology and obstetric clinic in Turkey. The control group were (n=34) and women with PCOS (n=38). IBS diagnosis was made by using Roma IV criteria. Results: The results showed that IBS prevalence was similar in PCOS (52%) and the control group (50%) (p>0.05). No statistically significant association was found between IBS-PCOS and non-IBS-PCOS in terms of gastrointestinal symptoms (p=0.685). These symptoms were associated with PCOS rather than IBS. Significant differences have been observed between IBS-PCOS and non-IBS-PCOS for fasting insulin (FI), luteinizing hormone (LH) and Homeostasis model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) (p<0.05). Significant differences have been observed between IBS-control and non-IBS-control for FI, fasting glucose and HOMA-IR (p<0.05). Aging was significantly associated with co-occurrence with IBS and PCOS. Conclusion: Although many PCOS patients were diagnosed with IBS based on Rome IV criteria, no significant relationship was found between PCOS and IBS prevalence in the study subjects. The prevalence of gastrointestinal symptoms is similar in both groups (IBS-PCOS and PCOS only). Age was an important risk factor for the co-occurrence of IBS and PCOS.

Keywords

• Polycystic ovary syndrome
• Irritable bowel syndrome
• gastrointestinal symptoms

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