Connecting Obesity and Reproductive Disorders

Obesity predisposes to reproductive disorders in both women and men. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder in women of reproductive age. PCOS prevalence is higher in women with obesity, associated with insulin resistance, glucose intolerance, sleep apnea, increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, and the commonest cause of anovulatory infertility. Obesity in men is linked to secondary hypogonadism and impaired semen quality and infertility. In addition, men with testosterone deficiency are prone to developing increased adiposity and reduced muscle mass, indicating a bidirectional relationship between obesity and hypogonadism. This review will focus on pathophysiology of PCOS and male obesity-associated hypogonadism, diagnostic approaches, and current therapies.