Effect of Yoga Therapy on Health Outcomes in Women With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to assess the effect of yoga therapy (YT) on health outcomes of women suffering from polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Interventional studies, with postmenarchal and premenopausal females with PCOS who received YT, with any health outcome reported, were included. Scopus, Cochrane, PubMed, Embase, and Medline databases were electronically searched. Systematic review included 11 experimental studies, representing 515 participants with PCOS, out of which 2 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included for meta-analysis. Random effects model was applied using Review Manager Software version 5.4.1 and strength of evidence was assessed using GRADEpro Guideline Development Tool, 2020. Meta-analysis showed that YT may significantly decrease menstrual irregularity (MD -.41, 95% CI -.74 to -.08), clinical hyperandrogenism (MD -.70, 95% CI -1.15 to -.26), fasting blood glucose (MD -.22mmol/L, 95% CI -.44 to -.01), fasting insulin (MD -28.21pmol/L, 95% CI -43.79 to -12.63), and homeostatic model assessment-insulin resistance value (MD -.86, 95% CI -1.29 to -.43). Strength of evidence was "low." In conclusion, YT may have beneficial effects on health outcomes in women suffering from PCOS. However, low strength of evidence suggests need of conducting well-designed RCTs to assess the efficacy of YT for PCOS.