Understand the link between depression and PCOS with Meri Sehat. Gain insights and support for mental well-being.

Depression And PCOS – What’s The Link?

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common endocrine disorders that affects the hormones and causes many mental and physical symptoms.

Introduction

In addition to irregular or infrequent periods, excessive hair growth, and acne, experiencing PCOS means the person is also prone to developing mental health conditions, particularly depression. 
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Unlike popular belief, <a href="https://merisehat.pk/disease/depression">depression </a>is a serious mental condition that needs proper medical treatment. The emotional toll of PCOS can manifest in different forms of depression in girls and women, including major depressive disorder, seasonal affective disorder, and bipolar depression, affecting their ability to function<a href="#accordion">[2]</a>. 
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Understanding The Link Between Depression And PCOS

Depression can be linked to PCOS through various mechanisms, including hormonal imbalances, psychological factors, and the impact of PCOS symptoms on quality of life.

According to studies, 26-40% of women with PCOS also have depression<a href="#accordion">[1][2]</a>. One study, in particular, points out that women with PCOS have higher rates of suicide compared to those without the syndrome<a href="#accordion">[2]</a>. 
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It&#39;s important to note that not all women with PCOS will experience depression, and the relationship between PCOS and depression can vary from person to person. 
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There is evidence to suggest that there may be a bidirectional relationship between PCOS and depression. Here are some ways the two may be linked:

<ul>
	<li>Hormonal Imbalances</li>
</ul>

PCOS is characterized by imbalances in sex hormones, particularly elevated androgens (male hormones), and insulin resistance. These hormonal imbalances can affect mood and emotional well-being, potentially contributing to feelings of depression or anxiety.

An increase in androgens can affect a woman&rsquo;s physical appearance i.e. hair loss, weight gain, acne, and excessive growth of dark and coarse facial hair. These changes negatively impact body image and self-esteem. Besides, associated health risks and challenges, like trying to start a family, could potentially contribute to feelings of depression. 
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The fear that there&rsquo;s something wrong with them or that their appearance doesn&rsquo;t conform to normal standards of beauty is real. It also impacts their relationships with their partner, and they plummet further into depression.

On the other hand, mental health conditions like depression may influence hormonal function in the body. Depression can particularly cause changes in levels of stress hormones like cortisol and cytokines, which can impact the endocrine system<a href="#accordion">[3]</a>. However, while depression might influence hormone levels, it is not a direct cause of PCOS. 
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<ul>
	<li>Irregular Menstrual Cycle</li>
</ul>

This is a common symptom of PCOS. The hormonal imbalance due to PCOS prevents ovulation. As a result, periods may be irregular or absent. Not knowing when the next period is due can be frustrating and stressful.

There&rsquo;s also an emotional factor attached to some women who are unable to conceive. It can prolong or intensify feelings of hopelessness, sadness, lack of motivation, and self-victimization typically associated with depression<a href="#accordion">[3][6]</a>. 
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<ul>
	<li>Metabolic And Inflammatory Factors</li>
</ul>

Some studies suggest that PCOS may be associated with low-grade inflammation and metabolic disturbances, which can have implications for mood and mental health.

It&rsquo;s like a snowball effect from there on. Depression, obesity, and stress all add to inflammation in the body. And then, coming full circle, increased inflammation activity in the immune system contributes to depression<a href="#accordion">[3]</a>. 
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<ul>
	<li>Lifestyle Factors</li>
</ul>

PCOS is associated with an increased risk of certain lifestyle factors, such as sedentary behavior and unhealthy eating habits, which can affect mental health and contribute to depression.

It&rsquo;s pertinent to mention here that even healthy behaviors like exercise can act as stressors in the wrong context. For instance, doing HIIT ( high intensity interval training) when the body is sleep-deprived is a no-no. 
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Treating PCOS can potentially help prevent or reduce the risk of depression in some women. 
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<ul>
	<li>PCOS is characterized by hormonal imbalances. Addressing this issue through medical treatments or lifestyle changes can have a positive impact on mood and emotional health.</li>
	<li>PCOS symptoms, such as irregular menstrual cycles, acne, hirsutism, and weight changes, are known to cause emotional distress, right? Well, managing these symptoms effectively can help improve emotional well-being and reduce feelings of frustration or self-consciousness.</li>
	<li>For women trying to conceive, dealing with ovulation irregularities and providing fertility support can alleviate the emotional burden associated with fertility challenges.</li>
	<li>Adopting a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, can positively affect both physical and mental health. Physical activity, in particular, has been linked to improved mood and reduced risk of depression.</li>
	<li>Educating masses about PCOS and providing access to support networks, such as healthcare professionals, support groups, or online communities, can help women cope with the challenges of living with the condition. 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Note: It&#39;s important that while treating PCOS can have a positive impact on emotional well-being, it may not entirely prevent depression, especially if there are other underlying factors contributing to the depression. Depression is a complex condition with multiple causes, and it may require separate or additional treatment approaches, such as therapy or medication. 
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If you or someone you know with PCOS is experiencing symptoms of depression or struggling emotionally, it&#39;s essential to seek support from a healthcare provider. They can provide guidance, offer appropriate treatments for both PCOS and depression, and help manage both the physical and emotional aspects of the condition effectively. 
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Treating depression itself does not directly prevent or avoid PCOS. PCOS is primarily a hormonal disorder with a genetic and hormonal basis. While depression or other mental health conditions may influence it, they&rsquo;re not the cause of PCOS. 
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However, addressing and treating depression in women with PCOS can be beneficial for several reasons:

<ul>
	<li>By treating depression, women with PCOS can experience better emotional and mental health, leading to an improved overall quality of life.</li>
	<li>Treating depression can help improve motivation and compliance with PCOS management strategies, such as taking medication, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and attending regular medical appointments.</li>
	<li>Managing depression can help reduce stress levels, which can have a positive impact on overall health and may indirectly contribute to better management of PCOS.</li>
	<li>Treating depression often involves learning coping skills and strategies to manage emotional challenges. These coping skills can help deal with the emotional impact of living with PCOS and navigating its challenges.</li>
	<li>Seeking treatment for depression can lead to increased social support from healthcare providers, mental health professionals, and support groups (in certain settings). Social support can play a significant role in helping women with PCOS cope with their condition. 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Note: If you or someone you know has PCOS and is also experiencing symptoms of depression, it&#39;s essential to seek support from healthcare professionals. They can provide guidance and help manage both the physical and emotional aspects of PCOS effectively. Taking care of mental health is an essential part of comprehensive care for individuals with PCOS. 
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The emotional and psychological impact of living with PCOS can be significant, and depression can adversely affect a person&#39;s overall well-being and quality of life. 
&nbsp;

Here are some reasons why girls with PCOS should be screened for depression:

<ul>
	<li>Increased Risk</li>
</ul>

Research has shown that women with PCOS have a higher prevalence of depression compared to women without the condition<a href="#accordion">[3]</a>. The hormonal imbalances, challenges related to fertility, and body image concerns associated with PCOS can contribute to emotional distress and an increased risk of mood disorders like depression. 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Emotional Impact</li>
</ul>

PCOS can affect self-esteem, body image, and overall emotional well-being. The physical symptoms of PCOS may lead to feelings of frustration, embarrassment, or self-consciousness, which can contribute to depression. 
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<ul>
	<li>Fertility Challenges</li>
</ul>

For girls and young women with PCOS, concerns about fertility and difficulties in conceiving may add to emotional stress and increase the risk of depression. 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Stress Management</li>
</ul>

PCOS can be a chronic condition requiring ongoing management. Stress and coping with the challenges of living with PCOS can impact mental health, making screening for depression important for timely intervention and support.

Regular screening allows for early detection and intervention. Identifying depression early enables healthcare providers to provide appropriate and holistic support, counseling, or treatment to improve emotional well-being. 
&nbsp;

Here are some reasons why girls with depression should be tested for PCOS:

<ul>
	<li>Common Comorbidity</li>
</ul>

Research has shown that there is a higher prevalence of PCOS in individuals with mood disorders like depression. Addressing the potential link between PCOS and depression is essential for understanding the underlying factors contributing to emotional health concerns. 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Hormonal Imbalances</li>
</ul>

PCOS is characterized by hormonal imbalances that can affect mood and emotional well-being, potentially exacerbating or worsening depressive symptoms. Identifying and addressing PCOS in girls with depression is essential for providing comprehensive healthcare and managing both conditions effectively. 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Impact On Emotional Health</li>
</ul>

The physical symptoms of PCOS can impact self-esteem and emotional well-being. Treating PCOS can help alleviate these concerns and improve emotional health. 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Fertility Concerns</li>
</ul>

For girls with depression who may be concerned about their future reproductive health, addressing PCOS can provide clarity and support. 
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<ul>
	<li>Individualized Treatment</li>
</ul>

Knowing whether a girl with depression has PCOS or not allows healthcare providers to tailor treatment plans based on her specific health needs and concerns.

Screening for PCOS in girls with depression typically involves a medical evaluation, blood tests to assess hormone levels, and an assessment of symptoms related to PCOS. If PCOS is identified, appropriate management strategies can be implemented, including lifestyle changes, medication, and counseling if needed. 
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Conclusion

It&#39;s essential to recognize the potential link between PCOS and depression and to address any emotional or mental health concerns that may arise.

Young or old, if you or someone you know with PCOS is experiencing symptoms of depression or struggling emotionally, it&#39;s essential to seek support from a healthcare professional. 
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Treating both the physical symptoms of PCOS and addressing emotional well-being is crucial for managing the condition comprehensively and promoting overall health and quality of life. 
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Key Takeaways

<ul>
	<li>According to estimates, the prevalence of PCOS is on the rise.</li>
	<li>Depending on the demographics and the diagnostic criteria applied, PCOS affects 5-20% of reproductive-aged women<a href="#accordion">[5]</a>. This includes almost 11% of youth globally<a href="#">[6]</a>.</li>
	<li>The prevalence of PCOS in Pakistan is 52%, with the affected population prone to developing anxiety and depression<a href="#accordion">[9]</a>.</li>
	<li>Females with PCOS are susceptible to multiple conditions, including diabetes, mood disorders, and hypertension. Depression and anxiety are common among 21-35-year-olds with PCOS<a href="#accordion">[9]</a>.</li>
	<li>While depression might influence hormone levels, it is not a direct cause of PCOS.</li>
	<li>There is evidence to suggest that depression is nearly 3-8 times higher in women with PCOS compared to women without it.</li>
	<li>According to a study, depressive symptoms with increasing duration of PCOS significantly reduced quality of life<a href="#accordion">[6]</a>. Depression changes their perspective on PCOS symptoms.</li>
	<li>It&#39;s important to recognize that PCOS and depression are distinct conditions, and having one does not necessarily cause the other. While there is a higher prevalence of depression among women with PCOS, not all women with PCOS will experience depression.</li>
	<li>Various studies show a poor understanding of PCOS and its risk factors among participants<a href="#accordion">[8]</a>. According to research, poor awareness leads to negative outcomes for women<a href="#accordion">[7]</a>.</li>
	<li>Health policymakers should consider conducting awareness campaigns within different academic institutions to promote disease education and lower the stigma attached to it. 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

[1] Moore M. Polycystic ovarian syndrome and depression. Psych Central

[2] Angela Grassi M. The connection between PCOS and depression. Verywell Health.

[3] What is the link between PCOS and depression? what to know. Medical News Today.

[4] What is the link between PCOS and depression? what to know. Medical News Today.

[5] Xing L, Xu J, Wei Y, et al. Depression in polycystic ovary syndrome: Focusing on pathogenesis and treatment. Frontiers.

[6] Peerwani G, Rozi S, Lakhdir MPA, Zuberi N, Asad N. Association of depressive symptoms and quality of life in Pakistani youth (15–24 years) with polycystic ovarian syndrome: A web-based analytical cross-sectional study. Frontiers.

[7] Rizvi M, Islam MA, Aftab MT, et al. Knowledge, attitude, and perceptions about polycystic ovarian syndrome, and its determinants among Pakistani undergraduate students. PloS one. May 25, 2023

[8] Kiran S, Sarwar H, Masih S. The knowledge and awareness on polycystic ovarian syndrome among lady health visitors in Public Health Nursing School Lahore: Knowledge and awareness on pcoss. Pakistan Journal of Health Sciences

[9] Frequency and risk factors for depression and anxiety in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome presenting in a Tertiary Care Hospital Karachi, Pakistan. Obstetrics and Gynecology Research