- Download PDF Copy
Reviewed
The University of OuluApr 28 2025
Women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) tend to have higher average ferritin levels compared to control subjects, but this does not seem to have a significant impact on their fertility or metabolic health. Iron deficiency also does not appear to be associated with infertility in women with PCOS. These findings are based on a study conducted at the University of Oulu, Finland, which investigated the relevance of ferritin levels to the health of women with PCOS.
Factors influencing ferritin levels included irregular menstruation, menstrual bleeding volume, and elevated insulin levels—features closely associated with the syndrome. Although high ferritin has previously been linked to poorer metabolic health, this association was weaker among the PCOS group than among the control group.
The study also examined the relationship between ferritin levels and infertility in both the PCOS and control groups, but no such association was found. Based on the findings, iron deficiency does not seem to be a cause of infertility, although adequate iron stores remain important for the health of both pregnant women and their developing babies.
The study utilized data collected as part of the Women's Health Study (WENDY), conducted between 2020 and 2022, which focused on the health of Finnish women aged 34-36.
Related Stories
- Research unveils cost disparities and information challenges faced by fertility patients in the UK
- The shifting sands of parenthood: Americans re-evaluate family plans
- How tobacco and cannabis affect male fertility and genetic integrity
PCOS is the most common hormonal disorder in women, affecting one in six. In addition to polycystic ovaries, disrupted menstrual cycles, and elevated androgen levels, the condition is often associated with metabolic disturbances and an increased risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
Ferritin is a protein that primarily stores iron in the body. Blood ferritin levels serve as an indicator of the body's overall iron status. In interpreting ferritin levels, inflammation markers must also be considered, as ferritin levels can rise significantly in response to inflammation.
Source:
Journal reference:
Virtanen, N., et al. (2025).Serum ferritin levels in women with polycystic ovary syndrome.Fertility and Sterility.doi.org/10.1016/j.fertnstert.2025.01.004.
Posted in: Medical Science News | Medical Research News | Women's Health News
Comments (0)
- Download PDF Copy
Suggested Reading
Understanding the impact of weight loss medications on female reproductive health
COVID-19 lowers sperm count and motility, new study confirms
Who gives better health advice - ChatGPT or Google?
Survey shows increased use of fertility apps after Dobbs decision
Researchers uncover key biological mechanism that prevents sperm-egg fusion
Study unveils protein complex critical for sperm morphology
Your BMI could be affecting your menstrual cycle—researchers explain how
Seasonal air pollution found to undermine IVF success
Comments
The opinions expressed here are the views of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of News Medical.
Post a new comment
Login
(Logout)
Post
Terms
While we only use edited and approved content for Azthena answers, it may on occasions provide incorrect responses. Please confirm any data provided with the related suppliers or authors. We do not provide medical advice, if you search for medical information you must always consult a medical professional before acting on any information provided.
Your questions, but not your email details will be shared with OpenAI and retained for 30 days in accordance with their privacy principles.
Please do not ask questions that use sensitive or confidential information.
Read the full .
