DEPRESSION & ANXIETY RELATION WITH POLY CYSTIC OVARY SYNDROME

 Research has found that anxiety (and depression) are more common among people with     PCOS. 

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrine disorder in reproductive age women and is associated with an increased prevalence of depression and anxiety symptoms. Women with PCOS have increased odds of depressive symptoms and anxiety symptoms. Obesity, insulin resistance, and elevated androgens may partly contribute to this association.

What is PCOS?

PCOS is a hormonal disorder that affects as many as 5millionTrusted Source people with uteruses of reproductive age in the United States.

Sometimes, people with PCOS are insulin resistant, and they have higher levels of androgens, such as testosterone. This can lead to symptoms like:

• irregular periods
• acne
• weight gain
• hair loss
• ovarian cysts
• anovulation (when the body stops ovulating)                                                                                                            “Many people with PCOS experience significant social anxiety, generalized anxiety, and panic attacks due to physical manifestations of PCOS,” Some also struggle with infertility, which can lead to anticipatory anxiety related to whether they will be able to have children and build their family.                                                            Is there a connection Between anxiety & PCOS?

• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder that causes enlarged ovaries. Small cysts may form on the outer edges.

  Stress

  PCOS itself is known to cause stress, particularly over the physical symptoms of the condition, such as excessive facial and body hair.

  This stress can lead to anxiety and depression. It’s more likely to affect younger women with PCOS. 

  If you have depression and PCOS, your doctor will likely treat your depression by treating the specific underlying cause.

  For example, if you’re insulin-resistant, you might try a low-carb diet. If you’re obese, you can make lifestyle changes to lose weight.

  If you have a hormonal imbalance, including excess androgen, birth control pills may be prescribed to help correct it.                                                                                                                                                                                             What is the treatment for depression if you have PCOS?                                           If you have depression and PCOS, your doctor will likely treat your depression by treating the specific underlying cause.

  For example, if you’re insulin-resistant, you might try a low-carb diet. If you’re obese, you can make lifestyle changes to lose weight.

  If you have a hormonal imbalance, including excess androgen, birth control pills may be prescribed to help correct it.