Thyroid Disorders in Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Abstract

Background: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder affecting reproductive-aged women and is frequently associated with metabolic disturbances and hormonal imbalances. Emerging evidence suggests a strong association between PCOS and thyroid dysfunction, particularly subclinical hypothyroidism, which may further exacerbate metabolic and reproductive abnormalities. However, the extent and clinical relevance of this overlap remain underexplored in certain populations. Objective: To determine the prevalence of thyroid disorders in women with PCOS and assess their association with metabolic, reproductive, and hormonal profiles. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from March to May 2025 at the Federal Government Polyclinic Hospital, Islamabad. A total of 165 women aged 18–40 years diagnosed with PCOS based on Rotterdam criteria were enrolled. Clinical symptoms, anthropometric data, and laboratory results—including thyroid function tests, reproductive hormones, and lipid/glucose profiles—were collected and analyzed. Group comparisons and correlations were performed using SPSS version 26. Results: Thyroid dysfunction was present in 40.6% of participants, predominantly as subclinical hypothyroidism. Patients with thyroid disorders had significantly higher fasting glucose (95.6 vs. 91.1 mg/dL, p = 0.04) and total cholesterol (210.4 vs. 198.5 mg/dL, p = 0.03). TSH positively correlated with BMI (r = 0.26, p = 0.01) and total cholesterol (r = 0.18, p = 0.05). Conclusion: A high prevalence of thyroid dysfunction in PCOS patients, particularly subclinical hypothyroidism, was associated with adverse metabolic markers. These findings support routine thyroid screening in PCOS for early detection and improved clinical management.