Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Found to Have Higher Risk of Suicide Attempts
Polycystic ovary syndrome
Women diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome may have an increased risk of attempting suicide, research suggests.
PCOS: A Common Health Condition
PCOS is a common health condition thought to affect about one in 10 women in the UK, although many cases are undiagnosed. The condition is characterized by irregular periods, acne, obesity, and cysts in the ovaries, among other symptoms. The World Health Organization notes PCOS as a leading cause of infertility.
Study Shows Higher Risk of Suicide Attempts
A large study conducted by researchers in Taiwan analyzed nationwide data from 8,960 women and girls diagnosed with PCOS, covering a period from 1997 to 2012. The study found that, when compared to women without PCOS but with similar characteristics, those diagnosed with PCOS had an 8.47-fold higher risk of suicide attempts.
Age-specific Risk Factors
Further analysis of the study results indicates that the risk of suicide attempts differed by age. Adolescents with PCOS were found to have a 5.38-times higher risk, whereas adults under 40 had a 9.15-times higher risk. Older adults, on the other hand, had a 3.75-times higher risk.
The drop in increased risk in older adults could be linked to an improvement in PCOS symptoms with age.
Possible Factors at Play
The researchers and other experts suggest that concerns over the impact of PCOS, including potential infertility and body image issues, may contribute to the increased risk of suicide attempts. Body image concerns, such as perceived obesity and acne, have been associated with suicide risk during adolescence, and these issues are common among adolescents with PCOS. Additionally, young adults may face additional challenges such as unemployment, financial difficulties, and relationship problems.
Expert Opinions and Insight
Dr. Sophie Williams from the University of Derby points out that women with PCOS are more likely to have depression and anxiety, as shown in previous research. However, the topic of PCOS and mental health remains largely underresearched with little understanding of the potential pathways and differences in brain activity associated with PCOS.
Williams emphasizes the importance of support and advises women with PCOS to reach out for help, including through the NHS.
Seeking Help and Crisis Support
Women facing difficulties with PCOS are urged to know they can seek help.
If you or someone you know is struggling with these issues or in crisis, contact the respective helpline in your country:
- UK and Ireland: Samaritans (Phone: 116 123, Email: jo@samaritans.org or jo@samaritans.ie)
- USA: National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (Phone/text: 988, Chat: 988lifeline.org)
- Australia: Lifeline (Phone: 13 11 14)
- Other international helplines: befrienders.org