Original content – “The causes of PCOS aren’t well-known, but it does involve an imbalance in hormones.”↩︎

Original content – “If you experience PCOS, you may also be prone to developing depression. Because PCOS can affect your hormones and your physical appearance, mental health conditions like depression are likely.”↩︎

Original content – “PCOS can lead to depression, as the symptoms of PCOS can be very unpleasant to deal with. One study showed that 26% of patients with PCOS also had depression.”↩︎

Original content – “The causes of PCOS aren’t well-known, but it does involve an imbalance in hormones.”↩︎

Original content – “One potential risk factor for depression in individuals with PCOS is the increase of androgens — a group of sex hormones in the body. Research suggests that the increase in androgens can cause hair loss, acne, weight gain, and excessive hair growth that’s dark and coarse.”↩︎

Original content – “These hormonal changes can alter your self-image and impact your self-esteem. When your views of yourself change negatively, this may lead to depression.”↩︎

Original content – “One of the most common signs of PCOS is irregular menstrual cycles. The imbalance of hormones and increase in androgen hormones can prevent ovulation from occurring, which can prevent you from having a period. Periods may be irregular, infrequent, or absent altogether. The imbalance of hormones and inability to predict your period can be frustrating and contribute to depression.”↩︎

Original content – “The imbalance of hormones that cause PCOS can prevent ovulation and cause infertility. PCOS is one of the most common causes of infertility. For individuals who want to get pregnant, infertility may lead to depression.”↩︎

Original content – “The hormone imbalance associated with PCOS can also affect your metabolism and risk for obesity. If you have PCOS, you’re at an increased risk for insulin resistance and diabetes, which can also contribute to weight gain and obesity.”↩︎

Original content – “Treatment of PCOS is complex, as it affects each individual differently. There are also many potential complications and comorbidities of the condition. As a result, there are various treatment options, from medication to lifestyle changes to surgery. With any potential treatment, working with a medical professional to determine which treatment might be right for you is essential.”↩︎

Original content – “According to 2019 research, the first line of treatment for PCOS is making lifestyle changes. If you have PCOS, the following tips can help reduce some of the syndrome’s symptoms: eating a healthy diet, exercising, getting adequate sleep, and losing weight. These changes can be challenging to start or maintain if you have a mental health condition like depression. Working with a mental health professional may be necessary to help you approach lifestyle changes and to treat your mental health.”↩︎

Original content – “Several medications can be used to help treat PCOS. Research indicates common medications used for the treatment of PCOS include Metformin, Inositol, Statins, Antiandrogens, Oral contraceptives, and Medroxyprogesterone acetate. If you’re considering medication to treat PCOS, you may consider speaking with your medical provider about your medical history and desired fertility. This may help you choose the best option for medication.”↩︎

Original content – “Fertility treatments are often used in the treatment of PCOS. The National Institute of Child Health and Human Development names these fertility treatments as options to help you get pregnant if desired: Clomiphene citrate, Letrozole, Gonadotropins, Intrauterine insemination (IUI), and In vitro fertilization (IVF). It’s essential to speak with a medical professional about the risks and benefits of fertility treatments before starting.”↩︎

Original content – “Antidepressants may be a treatment option for those with PCOS to help alleviate some of the mental health symptoms of the syndrome. But there’s a risk of weight gain with antidepressants, which can affect glucose and worsen PCOS symptoms. Antidepressants can also have side effects, including weight gain, which can worsen some of the negative effects of PCOS. It’s important to speak with a mental health specialist to discuss options and risks before you start any antidepressant medication.”↩︎

Original content – “Psychotherapy can help treat depression in individuals with PCOS. Research indicates that therapy such as acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) may be helpful for individuals with PCOS. To start finding a therapist, consider using this resource for support.”↩︎

Original content – “If you have PCOS and are also experiencing depression, consider speaking with a mental health professional. Here are some signs you may need to seek help: a disruption in your sleeping or eating patterns (i.e., sleeping too much or not at all; overeating or not at all), trouble in your relationships, feelings of worthlessness, hopelessness, or helplessness, thoughts of harming yourself or others. If you’re experiencing suicidal thoughts, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988. Help is available 24/7, 365 days a year. For help locating a mental health professional near you, use the FindCare tool to narrow your search.”↩︎

Original content – “If you live with PCOS, you may be prone to depression. The symptoms of PCOS can affect your physical and mental health. Your body image and self-esteem may be lower due to the effects of PCOS, such as weight gain, acne, and excessive hair growth. In addition, you may physically be in pain and have difficulty implementing and maintaining necessary lifestyle changes to reduce symptoms. PCOS and depression are something to take seriously. If you notice low self-esteem, lack of motivation, or thoughts of self-harm or suicide, this is a sign to seek professional help. If you want to learn more about a support network for PCOS, consider visiting The National Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Association. They’re a support and advocacy group for people with PCOS.”↩︎

Original content – “If you live with PCOS, you may be prone to depression. The symptoms of PCOS can affect your physical and mental health. Your body image and self-esteem may be lower due to the effects of PCOS, such as weight gain, acne, and excessive hair growth. In addition, you may physically be in pain and have difficulty implementing and maintaining necessary lifestyle changes to reduce symptoms. PCOS and depression are something to take seriously. If you notice low self-esteem, lack of motivation, or thoughts of self-harm or suicide, this is a sign to seek professional help. If you want to learn more about a support network for PCOS, consider visiting The National Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Association. They’re a support and advocacy group for people with PCOS.”↩︎