Prevalence of Subclinical Hypothyroidism in Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome

Abstract

Introduction: Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and hypothyroidism are common endocrine disorders affecting women of reproductive age, sharing clinical features such as menstrual irregularities, obesity, and infertility. This study aims to assess the prevalence of subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH) in women diagnosed with PCOS.

Aim & Objective: To evaluate the prevalence of SCH in PCOS patients diagnosed using Rotterdam criteria, and to correlate thyroid dysfunction with clinical, anthropometric, and ultrasonographic parameters.

Materials & Methods: An observational cross-sectional study was conducted among 80 reproductive-age women diagnosed with PCOS at a tertiary care hospital. Detailed history, anthropometric measurements (BMI, waist-hip ratio), clinical assessment for hyperandrogenism, thyroid profile (FT3, FT4, TSH), and transabdominal ultrasonography were performed. SCH was defined as elevated TSH with normal FT3 and FT4.

Results: The mean age of participants was 24.63 ± 5.09 years. The majority were overweight (37.5%) or obese (38.75%). Menstrual irregularities were present in 90% of women. The prevalence of SCH was 18.75%, while 7.50% had overt hypothyroidism. The most common PCOS phenotype was O+H+P (53.75%). No statistically significant association was found between thyroid status and age, BMI, WHR, PCOS phenotype, or clinical features including acne, hirsutism, and menstrual complaints (p>0.05). However, a higher proportion of SCH was noted in patients with hair loss (33.3%) and heavy menstrual bleeding (23.1%).

Conclusion: Subclinical hypothyroidism is prevalent in nearly one-fifth of women with PCOS, supporting routine thyroid screening in this population for early detection and management of thyroid dysfunction.

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