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Effect of Exercise Therapy on Non-Obese Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial

Yang X, Yang H, Lao J, Zhang Q, Li Z, Bai L, Zhu C

Complementary medicine research, 2026

Abstract

Background: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent endocrine disorder affecting up to 13% of women of reproductive age, with associated reproductive, metabolic, and psychological complications. While lifestyle interventions, particularly exercise therapy, are crucial in managing PCOS in obese individuals, their impact on nonobese patients remains inadequately explored. This study aims to assess the effects of exercise therapy on menstrual regularity, hormonal profiles, and metabolic parameters in nonobese women with PCOS. Methods: This protocol outlines a single-blind, randomized controlled trial (RCT). Forty-eight nonobese women with PCOS (body mass index ≤25) meeting the inclusion criteria were enrolled and randomized into three groups: aerobic exercise with usual care (US), resistance exercise with UC, and UC alone. The interventions spanned 12 weeks, with assessments at baseline, 4, 8, and 12 weeks. Primary outcomes include menstrual regularity and anthropometric indices, while secondary outcomes encompass hormonal levels, insulin resistance, and ovarian morphology. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 27.0, with statistical significance set at p .

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Evidence Hub reads this as a randomized trial, done in people. Its evidence level is 2 of 5 (High · randomized trial). Randomized trials of a reasonable size are the strongest single-study design.

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