There is anecdotal evidence that women with PCOS have a predisposition to weight gain and difficulties with weight management. There is some preliminary evidence to support this.

Hormones involved in the regulation of appetite have been examined in a small number of research projects in PCOS. Cholecystokinin (CCK) is released from the small intestine after eating and inhibits gastric emptying, increases satiety and reduces meal size and energy intake in humans. Ghrelin is released from the stomach before eating and stimulates hunger and food intake. Compared to weight-matched controls, overweight women with PCOS have greater post-prandial hunger¹² and reduced post-prandial CCK¹³ and ghrelin levels¹². This suggests that the regulation of appetite by CCK and ghrelin is impaired in women with PCOS¹³. However, a recent study showed no differences in post-prandial appetite hormones (CCK and peptide YY) and no differences in food intake between women with and without PCOS¹⁴. Overall, this suggests that some women with PCOS may have abnormalities in appetite regulation, need more increased emphasis on appropriate intensive long-term weight loss or weight maintenance strategies and greater follow up and support. Dietary strategies which optimise appetite and satiety may also aid in achieving and sustaining a reduced weight.

Content updated August 18, 2008