For a 48-year-old woman in perimenopause with long-term obesity, a diagnosis of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is indeed a cause for concern. The combination of these conditions significantly increases health risks, necessitating careful management and lifestyle adjustments.

Polycystic ovary syndrome is a hormonal disorder affecting women of reproductive age. It occurs when the body produces an excess of male hormones, while female hormone levels are insufficient. Common symptoms include menstrual irregularities, obesity, male pattern characteristics, insulin resistance, metabolic disorders, and skin darkening. If not detected and treated early, PCOS can lead to hormonal imbalance, increasing the risk of diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and infertility.

Weight loss can reduce polycystic ovary syndrome symptoms in middle-aged women. Photo created by AI

Women in perimenopause, like your mother, experience numerous hormonal and metabolic changes. These include increased androgen levels and decreased estrogen, which contribute to chronic inflammation, abdominal fat, weight gain, and dyslipidemia. Obese women face a higher risk of developing PCOS, and PCOS can in turn exacerbate obesity. The syndrome causes insulin resistance, leading to increased production of male hormones (androgens), which results in weight gain, acne, and menstrual irregularities. Obese women with PCOS also have a higher risk of sleep apnea compared to the general population.

Weight loss offers substantial benefits, helping to regulate menstrual cycles, reduce PCOS symptoms, improve cholesterol levels, lower insulin, and prevent cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Therefore, you should support and encourage your mother to adopt lifestyle and dietary changes, including a healthy diet and regular exercise. If weight loss is not achieved, you should take her to a hospital with an endocrinology department specializing in obesity treatment. There, a doctor can guide a personalized treatment plan to enhance weight loss effectiveness.

Dr. Tran Thuy Ngan

Head of Endocrinology and Diabetes Unit

Tam Anh General Clinic, District 7