Caracterización del síndrome de ovarios poliquísticos desde el término de la edad reproductiva hasta la menopausia / Ovarian function during late reproductive age and early menopausal transition in women with polycystic ovary syndrome

ABSTRACT

The higher life expectancy and prevalence of obesity among women has increased the prevalence of diseases associated to metabolic syndrome such as polycystic ovary disease and cardiovascular diseases. Polycystic ovary disease is common among women of reproductive age and the main cause of hyperandrogenism. Multiple growing follicles and increased ovarian stroma are observed. Hyperinsulinemia, commonly associated with the syndrome, stimulates follicle development, ovarian volume and cardiovascular risk. After the age of 35 years, the late reproductive ages ensues in healthy women with a reduction in the number of ovarian follicles. This is accentuated after the age of 40, when menopausal transition starts. Women with polycystic ovary syndrome could experience a delay in the onset of menopause due to their elevated androgen and insulin levels and their increased follicular mass. This is a review about the endocrine and metabolic changes experienced by women with polycystic ovary syndrome from the end of their reproductive life to their menopause. The mechanisms that differentiate these women from their healthy counterparts are discussed.