Association between polycystic ovary syndrome and venous thromboembolism: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Karim Gariani, Justine Hugon-Rodin, Jacques Philippe, Marc Righini, Marc Blondon

Journal: Thrombosis research 2021;185():102-108

PMID: 31790999

Abstract

AIMS

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is very prevalent and commonly treated with prothrombotic combined oral contraceptives (COC). Our aim was to systematically review the available evidence to evaluate the risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) associated with PCOS, and whether observed increased risks may be explained by a higher prevalence of obesity and hormonal treatments.

METHOD

For this systematic review and meta-analysis, two authors independently searched MEDLINE, EMBASE and conference proceedings (ISTH, WHITH) from inception through 4.2019 for studies reporting the association of PCOS with VTE risk. Study quality was assessed and relative risk estimates were pooled through random effect models.

RESULTS

We identified 5 large observational studies published between 2004 and 2018, most commonly using administrative data, set in Denmark, the USA or the United Kingdom. Compared with participants without PCOS, participants with PCOS had greater risks of VTE in unadjusted analyses (pooled OR 1.70, 95%CI 1.42-2.04, I 67%). In three studies reporting analyses adjusted for at least obesity and hormonal treatments, PCOS was still associated with greater risks of VTE (pooled OR 1.89, 95%CI 1.60-2.24, I 27%).

CONCLUSIONS

PCOS appears to be a risk factor for VTE, independently of its associated excess weight and greater use of combined oral contraceptives. This should be taken into account in the pharmacological management of PCOS.

Copyright © 2019 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Address: Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, Hypertension and Nutrition, Geneva University Hospitals and Faculty of Medicine, Geneva, Switzerland.; Division for Gynaecology and for Unit Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, University Hospitals of Geneva, Faculty of Medicine of the Geneva University, Geneva, Switzerland; Unité de Gynécologie Endocrinienne, Hôpital Port-Royal, Université Paris Descartes, Equipe EPOPE, Inserm, Paris, France.; Division of Angiology and Haemostasis, Geneva University Hospitals and Faculty of Medicine, Geneva, Switzerland.; Division of Angiology and Haemostasis, Geneva University Hospitals and Faculty of Medicine, Geneva, Switzerland. Electronic address: [email protected].
Bant logo

© Copyright 2026, Nutrition Evidence

NED wishes to thank the following organisations for their support:

We use cookies to improve your experience and analyze site traffic with Google Analytics. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our use of cookies. Learn more.