Bioelectric impedance analysis of visceral fat in women with polycystic ovarian syndrome and the effect of exercise: A pilot study

Aims: To determine the body fat distribution in 30 women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) using bioelectric impedance analysis (BIA) and assess the effect of a 2-month structured exercise on body fat, menstrual function and fertility outcomes. Materials and methods: Thirty women with PCOS underwent assessment of body composition with BIA. Their body mass index (BMI), total body fat (TBF), visceral fat (VF) and subcutaneous fat were analyzed. Two-month structured exercises were advised based on individual exercise tolerance. The postexercise parameters were reassessed. Outcome measures studied were improvement in BMI, TBF, VF, subcutaneous fat, menstrual functions and fertility outcomes. Results: A significant reduction in BMI, VF and subcutaneous fat was found in these women after exercise. Results were further analyzed after dividing them into three groups based on their BMI (normal, overweight, and obese). There was a significant reduction in all parameters (BMI, TBF, visceral and subcutaneous fat) in the overweight group. In the obese group, there was a significant drop in BMI and VF and to a lesser extent in the TBF. In women with normal BMI, a significant drop was noted in TBF only. On follow-up, five women reported regularization of their menstrual cycles and four others managed to conceive. Conclusion: Total body fat and VF can be cost-effectively measured by a simple tool called BIA. Tailor-made exercises based on individual tolerance are effective in improving these parameters even when done over a short duration. These improvements do positively impact the menstrual dysfunctions and subfertility. Clinical significance: These findings will help in better management of women with PCOS and ensure optimal improvement in menstrual dysfunction and fertility outcomes.