Therapeutic effect of omega-3 fatty acid in polycystic ovarian disease

Polycystic ovarian disease is the most common endocrine condition in reproductive-aged women. Its common characteristics are reproductive, metabolic, endocrine, and psychological changes in women. We review here the therapeutic effect of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids on polycystic ovarian disease (PCOD). Therefore, the aim of conducting a review was to study the possible effects and their mechanism. A comprehensive systematic search was conducted in MEDLINE/PubMed, Google Scholar, and SCOPUS, to find studies investigating omega-3 fatty acids as a preventative or therapeutic agent for the attenuation of PCOD complications. Subsequently, the impact of omega-3 on PCOD, inflammation, insulin resistance, obesity, and hormonal imbalance were discussed. Although most of the studies in patients with PCOD reported an improvement in many complications after administration of omega-3 supplements, there is a distinct shortage of studies investigating the dietary intake of these types of fatty acids. A balanced amount of omega-3 fatty acid is important for prevention and reducing complications of PCOD.