Association between oral microbial shifts and polycystic ovary syndrome: a systematic review
Year: 2026
Type: review
Study design: Systematic Review
Abstract: Objectives This systematic review aimed to assess the association between the oral microbiota and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and elucidate its potential clinical significance.Materials and methods A comprehensive search of eight databases and other sources from inception to 13 January 2026, identified 10 eligible studies from 310 records, involving 334 PCOS patients and analyzed oral microbiota species and their clinical parameters correlation.Results Oral microbiota alterations in PCOS women showed consistent and heterogeneous features, with Fusobacterium elevation as the most robust finding. However, the results for Porphyromonas gingivalis and Fusobacterium nucleatum varied with periodontal status. Specific oral microbial changes are correlated with core systemic features of PCOS, including hormonal dysregulation (e.g. elevated testosterone and luteinizing hormone) and metabolic disturbances (e.g. dyslipidemia and insulin resistance).Conclusions Oral microbiota alterations in PCOS are characterized by consistent Fusobacterium elevation and heterogeneous changes associated with systemic inflammation, metabolic‒endocrine disturbances and poor periodontal health. Despite the limited current evidence, the oral microbiota may serve as a novel entry point for PCOS management. Large, high‑quality prospective studies are warranted to clarify the causal relationship between the oral microbiota and PCOS, and to explore the feasibility of modulating the oral microbiota as a novel therapeutic strategy.
Source: Journal of Oral Microbiology
Authors: Qinghua Mao, Chuanxia Liu, Zhimin Yan
Language: English
Subfield: Periodontics
Field: Dentistry
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,428
OpenAlex ID: W7151482787