The Association Between Vitamin D and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) in Women: A Systematic Review
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent endocrine disorder characterized by reproductive and metabolic dysfunction. Vitamin D deficiency is common in women with PCOS and is linked to adverse metabolic and reproductive outcomes. However, the role of vitamin D supplementation in managing PCOS remains unclear due to the heterogeneous evidence available. This systematic review aimed to synthesize both observational and interventional studies to assess the association between vitamin D levels and PCOS, focusing on prevalence, metabolic outcomes, and reproductive parameters. Methods: A comprehensive search of PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Embase was conducted in October 2025, identifying studies published between January 2000 and October 2025. Eligible studies included observational studies and randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] levels and/or the effects of vitamin D supplementation in women with PCOS. Studies were included if they used recognized diagnostic criteria for PCOS or sufficient diagnostic details to confirm the condition. Two reviewers independently performed screening, data extraction, and quality assessment according to PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Results: Eleven studies (nine RCTs, two observational) encompassing 1063 women with PCOS met the inclusion criteria. Observational studies demonstrated inverse associations between serum 25(OH)D levels and insulin resistance, body mass index…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a systematic review, done in people. Its evidence level is 1 of 5 (Highest · pooled evidence). Pooled evidence from several studies sits at the top of the evidence pyramid. Reported size: 1,063 participants or records.
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