How PCOS Impacts Mental Health

PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) is a complex medical condition caused by a hormone imbalance disorder that is typically characterized by an excess production of the hormone testosterone, irregular ovulation (release of the egg from the ovary), and cysts (fluid-filled sacs) in the ovaries. It is estimated to affect 11-17 million people aged 18-44 in the US, and there is no cure for it. It can cause symptoms like infertility, hirsutism (excess facial and body hair), and obesity. Many studies attribute these symptoms to being the major factors of mental health disorders because of the psychological distress that they can cause. PCOS can lead to severe mental health issues like anxiety, depression, and eating disorders.

Some specific symptoms of PCOS are related to specific disorders. For example, body hair and menstrual problems most strongly predict anxiety while obesity most strongly predicts eating disorders and hostility. This can be attributed to the fact that people with PCOS report feeling frustrated and anxious about their ability to get pregnant, their weight, excess body and facial hair, and, in general, lack of control over their health and bodies. Symptoms of PCOS can also make people feel ‘unfeminine', less physically fit, and less healthy which can cause a lot of emotional distress. Since PCOS is an extremely complex condition without any cure, the journey to alleviate and treat its various symptoms can be psychologically draining and tough to endure because of the trial-and-error treatments. PCOS is associated with an increased risk of a diagnosis of depression, anxiety, BPD, and OCD along with worse symptoms of depression, anxiety, OCD, and somatization.

These disorders can be treated through lifestyle changes, include (which includes leading a more active life), medications and supplements, and alternative therapies. People who reported exercising regularly had fewer symptoms of anxiety and depression. Antidepressants like metformin can also help with such symptoms along with omega-3-fatty-acid from fish oil and vitamin D. Alternative therapies include mindfulness like practicing yoga and laser hair removal to combat excessive facial hair which can improve body image and self-esteem.

Recognizing the mental health effects of PCOS is an important step in providing quality treatment to people suffering from it. The constant discourse around these symptoms allows people with PCOS to recognize these issues and seek out any necessary help. PCOS is a disease with multi-faceted effects, so being able to address all of the effects is essential for providing effective guidance to navigate these effects and ensure a good quality of life for people with the condition.

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