LAUSR

INTRODUCTION: Poly cystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the common endocrine condition with an increasing prevalence in recent years. Life style is recognized to be a very important factor in the development and progression of this condition. Poor life style which includes lack of exercise and dietary habits is said to be the underlying factor in the development of the condition. It is estimated that approximately 40%-60% of PCOS subjects are obese. Obesity plays a major role in aggravating the clinical presentation of the disease, very importantly fertility and metabolism. Insulin resistance is also closely associated with obesity and PCOS. Lifestyle changes including more physical activity, changes in nutritional habits and diet can improve obesity, metabolic and hormonal profile in these people which enhances their quality of life. OBJECTIVE: To study the effectiveness of aerobic exercise and life style intervention among young women with polycystic ovary syndrome. MATERIALS & METHODS: Total 30 PCOS subjects in the age group between 18 to 25 years were recruited based on the Rotterdam criteria (2003) for the presence of PCOS in this pretest-posttest, randomized controlled trial. The recruited subjects were randomly allocated into two groups, each group consisting of 15 subjects. Group A (AE) were intervened with aerobic exercises protocol, which comprised of 45 minutes of brisk jogging in a treadmill at 6km/hour speed and Group B (ASE) were instructed only to do active stretching exercises. The study duration was 12 weeks. PCOS-Q50 and blood hormonal level were taken pre and post intervention. Both the groups received nutritional advice from a nutritionist. Statistical analysis of the result was done using paired t test within groups and independent t test between the groups. RESULT: The result of the study showed that on the PCOS Q-50 parameter, LH: FSH ratio, free testosterone hormone level, homeostatic Model Assessment Insulin resistance and high sensitivity C Reactive protein, Group A(AE) showed highly significant decrease in the post test mean at P<0.001 when compared to Group B(ASE). CONCLUSION: The present study concluded that a 12 week aerobic exercise and life style intervention was effective in improving PCOS-Q50 scores and hormonal levels among young women with PCOS.