The role of obstetrician-gynecologists and reproductive endocrinologists in the blood glucose management of polycystic ovary syndrome.

Background

This study aimed to compare the differences between reproductive endocrinologists (Repro-Endo) and obstetricians-gynecologists (Ob-Gyn; non-reproductive medicine specialty) in diagnosing, evaluating, and treating PCOS women with insulin resistance (IR).

Methods

Repro-Endo and Ob-Gyn in China participated in this survey, and their responses were analyzed using χ2 tests, Fisher exact tests, and multivariable logistic regression analysis.

Results

The study analyzed 2412 survey responses (92.3% OB-Gyn; 98.5% women). Physician's age, hospital grade, specialty, and the number of PCOS patients who visit the physicians, revealed that Repro-Endo participants were more likely to suggest an oral glucose tolerance test (OR, 1.727; 95% CI, 1.272-2.345) as their first choice than Ob-Gyn participants. The most common treatments for patients with PCOS were lifestyle modification (>95%) and metformin use (>80%). More Repro-Endo participants prescribed metformin at a dose of 1.5 g/day compared with OB-Gyn (46.5% vs. 23.5%), and more OB-Gyn participants reported being unclear about the appropriate dosage of metformin for patients with obesity and PCOS (12.5% vs. 1.6%).

Conclusion

This survey identified knowledge gaps in metabolic screening for patients with IR and PCOS. Similarly, it highlights the need to improve IR management education for physicians caring for PCOS women.