Determinants of emotional problems and mood disorders in women with polycystic ovary syndrome

Abstract

Objectives: The aim of the study was to assess the prevalence and severity of emotional problems among Polish women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and seek factors which increase the risk of their occurrence. Material and methods:The study group consisted of 82 women (aged 18-48), who were diagnosed with PCOS based on the Rotterdam criteria. During hospitalization, the patients completed a number of questionnaires, providing their sociodemographic data and information concerning the inconvenience of disease-associated symptoms. The questionnaires included the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), and Multidimensional Self-Esteem Inventory (MSEI). Data obtained during medical examinations (blood tests, transvaginal ultrasound, height and body mass measurements) were analyzed.Results: Out of 82 women, the results detected risk for depression in 42 (51.22%), mild depressive disorders in 32, moderate disorders in 8, and severe disorder in 2 patients. No statistically significant correlation between BDI or state anxiety and the level of the analyzed hormones, insulin resistance, or infertility treatment, was found. General self-esteem, trait anxiety, and marital status were associated with the occurrence of depression symptoms. BMI was associated with the level of state anxiety during hospitalization. Conclusions:Women with PCOS are at risk for mood and anxiety disorders. Disease-related somatic factors are not directly associated with the risk for disorder occurrence. However, severity of depression symptoms has been shown to be influenced by permanent psychological characteristics of the studied women, i.e. self-esteem, trait anxiety, and life situation (marital status). Therefore, it is recommended to include interviews about patient life situation and screening questionnaires for assessing depression into the diagnostic procedures in PCOS patients. Patients should be referred for a psychological or psychiatric consultation, if needed.

Hyperandrogenism in polycystic ovary syndrome affects psychological well‐being of adolescents

“…In addition, one study reported higher HOMA‐IR scores in PCOS with depression compared to PCOS without depression after controlling for BMI 33 . However, few other researchers reported no relationship between HOMA‐IR, insulin levels, FG and psychological symptoms 22,34 . In our study, we could not find any significant correlation between IR and psychiatric scores.…”

The effect of cognitive behavioral therapy on depression and anxiety of women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a randomized controlled trial

“…According to studies, women with PCOS are more likely to suffer from mood disorders than healthy ones [10,11]. Also, the prevalence of depression is higher 4-5 times in these patients [12].…”

Body mass index and quality of life in individuals with polycystic ovary syndrome: Dysmorphic concerns and eating disorders as mediators

“…Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a disabling endocrinopathy affecting approximately 6–10% of women of childbearing age ( 1 ). The condition is multifactorial and often difficult to diagnose due to the existence of different diagnostic criteria ( 2 ), mainly based on the presence of a combination of clinical signs of anovulation or menstrual irregularities, polycystic ovaries and androgen excess ( 3 ).…”