PCOS Linked to Eight-Fold Increase in Suicide Risk, New Study Finds
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common health problem that affects millions of women worldwide. It is characterized by symptoms such as infertility, irregular periods, irregular hair growth, acne, and weight gain. However, a new study has found that PCOS is not just a physical condition – it also takes a toll on mental health. According to research published in the Annals of Internal Medicine, women with PCOS have an eight-fold increased risk of attempting suicide compared to those without the condition.
The study, which analyzed data from nearly 19,000 women diagnosed with PCOS between 1997 and 2012, found that the increased risk of suicide attempts was present in adolescents, young adults, and older adults with PCOS. The researchers noted that the challenges associated with fertility and the management of PCOS symptoms could further compound existing mental health challenges.
PCOS affects between 6% and 12% of women of reproductive age in the United States. It is one of the most common causes of infertility in females, but its impact extends beyond child-bearing years. People with PCOS are at a higher risk of developing health complications such as diabetes, heart disease, high cholesterol levels, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, and stroke. They are also more likely to experience psychiatric conditions like personality disorder, schizoaffective disorder, anxiety disorders, and depressive disorders.
Experts believe that the association between PCOS and mental health challenges could be due to a combination of factors. Women with PCOS often have higher levels of androgens, which are male hormones also present in females. These hormones can disrupt ovulation and lead to physical changes that may contribute to depression and anxiety. Additionally, many women with PCOS also have insulin resistance, which can increase the risk of mental illnesses like depression.
Dr. Sun Kim, an associate professor of medicine in endocrinology at Stanford Medicine, explains that the exact cause of the increased suicide risk in women with PCOS is still unknown and likely multifactorial. However, she believes that raising awareness of the mental health challenges associated with PCOS is crucial. She encourages those with the condition to seek support and discuss their risks with their primary physician.
Addressing the mental health impacts of PCOS can be challenging, as many endocrinologists and gynecologists who treat women with the condition are not equipped to manage their mental health. Dr. Kim emphasizes the importance of finding mental health services for PCOS patients and alleviating their anxiety by addressing the aspects of PCOS that are most distressing to them.
While there is no cure for PCOS, symptoms can be managed. Lifestyle changes such as weight loss, maintaining a healthy diet, and regular exercise can help. Medications can also be used to regulate ovulation, reduce hair growth, and control acne. Dr. G. Thomas Ruiz, an OB/GYN and the head of OB/GYN at MemorialCare Orange Coast Medical Center, advises women to seek medical care and treat the condition to control it effectively. By managing insulin levels and establishing weight loss, women with PCOS can improve their ovarian function and potentially alleviate their depression.
In conclusion, PCOS is not just a physical condition – it significantly impacts mental health as well. Women with PCOS have an eight-fold increased risk of attempting suicide compared to those without the condition. The challenges associated with fertility and the management of PCOS symptoms, along with societal stigmas, contribute to the burden of this condition. Raising awareness of the mental health challenges associated with PCOS is crucial, and individuals with the condition should seek support and discuss their risks with healthcare professionals. While there is no cure for PCOS, symptoms can be managed through lifestyle changes and medications. By properly treating the condition, women with PCOS can improve their overall well-being and potentially reduce their risk of mental health complications.
