Prevalence, clinical patterns, and associated risk factors of polycystic ovarian syndrome among women seeking fertility treatment at Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre Hospital, Northern Tanzania.

Abstract

Objective: To assess the prevalence, clinical patterns, and risk factors of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) among women seeking fertility treatment at Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre, Northern Tanzania.

Methodology: Hospital-based analytical cross-sectional studies were used, involving 367 women obtained through convenience sampling. Data collection was conducted using Swahili-translated questionnaires. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26, using descriptive statistics, Fisher's exact test, and logistic regression, considering P < 0.05 as statistically significant.

Results: The study found a 36% prevalence of PCOS among participants, with the highest occurrence in women aged 18-24 years 72.7%. Statistical analysis revealed significant associations between PCOS and age, with women aged 25-32 having significantly lower odds of PCOS compared to the 18-24 age group (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 0.24, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.09-0.65, P = 0.005). Multiparous women also had lower odds of PCOS (AOR = 0.33, 95% CI 0.19-0.75, P = 0.001). Approximately 59.7% of women with PCOS had a menstrual cycle duration greater than 35 days.

Conclusion: The prevalence of PCOS was 36% among the study population, primarily affecting younger women aged 18-24. The study underscores the need for further research to enhance the understanding of PCOS and improve treatment and reproductive outcomes.