Effects of an Aerobic Exercise Program on LH, FSH, TST and DHEA Levels in Obese Women

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is an endocrine disorder, characterized by anovulation, hirsutism, acne, hyperandrogenism, impaired glucose tolerance, insulin resistance and obesity. Life style modifications are recommended to prevent and treat obese and over weight women with PCOS. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of aerobic exercise program on concentrations of LH, FSH, TST and DHEA in obese women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Seventeen obese female volunteers who were diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome (age: 15-30 y and BMI=29.35±2.88 Kg/m2) were selected. An aerobic exercise program was performed for 12-weeks, three sessions week). Anthropometric characteristics, metabolic and hormonal profiles were measured at base line and after 12-week exercises or (36th session). Data were analyzed by Paired-Samples T Test (t-student), P values <0.05 being considered significant. After the 12-week exercise program, subjects showed a significant reduction in body weight, body fat percent, waist circumference, luteinizing hormone and an increase in Vo2-peak(P<0/05); changes however in body mass index, FSH, TST and DHEA were not significant. These results suggest that aerobic exercise training affects some of anthropometric characteristics and metabolic and hormonal profiles and also improves metabolic status and ovulation disorders, including polycystic ovary syndrome.