Abstract
BACKGROUND: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is the most prevalent metabolic and endocrine disorder among women of reproductive age. Long-term management is crucial, yet the poor compliance and low sustainability of lifestyle interventions limit their effectiveness. Digital health interventions have demonstrated the potential to improve patient compliance. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis evaluates the efficacy of digital health interventions in improving PCOS management. METHODS: We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on digital health interventions for PCOS by searching databases from inception until November 2025. The quality of included studies was evaluated using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool, and publication bias was examined with funnel plots, Egger's test, and Trim and Fill method. We used RevMan 5.4 software for the meta-analysis to evaluate the efficacy of these interventions. Subgroup analyses based on intervention duration and outcome measurement tools were performed to further clarify their benefits for PCOS patients. RESULTS: Twenty-five RCTs were included. The meta-analysis demonstrated that digital health interventions significantly improved treatment compliance (P = 0.007), compliance behavior (P < 0.05), quality of life (P = 0.04), and healthy lifestyle modifications-including dietary rhythm, sports consciousness, dietary content, and rhythm of life (all P < 0.05). Significant reductions were observed in body mass index (P = 0.02), waist circumference (P < 0.00001), serum testosterone (P = 0.002), anxiety (P < 0.00001), and depressive symptoms (P < 0.00001). However, no significant differences were observed in luteinizing hormone (P = 0.68), follicle-stimulating hormone levels (P = 0.97), or body awareness of lifestyle changes (P = 0.24). Subgroup analysis indicated that digital health interventions significantly improved body mass index after ≥ 6 months (P < 0.05) and effectively alleviated anxiety and depression regardless of intervention duration. CONCLUSION: Digital health interventions represent a valuable adjunct in the long-term management of PCOS, demonstrating efficacy across clinical, behavioral, and psychological domains. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION: Registration number: CRD 420,251,002,149.