The Psychosocial Impact of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Abstract

Polycystic ovary syndrome is a common endocrine disorder affecting 5–20% of women in association with metabolic disorders and insulin resistance. Patients with PCOS are also at increased risk of developing cardiovascular sound aspects of polycystic ovaries and metabolic complications, a psychosocial impact that exists, which is poorly known, assessed and treated. The delay, sometimes long, for diagnosis and its announcement has a strong impact on the feelings and life projects of these patients. Psychological co-morbidities such as depression, anxiety, eating disorders as well as a decrease in self-esteem and quality of life are frequently described in these patients and must, therefore, be screened and treated.

Role of Stress in Onset of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)

“…The prevalence of undiagnosed PCOS is alarmingly high, estimated at around 75% among females visiting hospitals for various issues. This high prevalence is attributed to a lack of awareness and knowledge about PCOS, coupled with the complexity of its diagnosis, which varies based on different diagnostic criteria (4)(5)(6). Stress, in its broad definition, is the body's response to external stimuli and changes in the environment.…”

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“…Less is known about the psychosocial aspects of PCOS, and the inter-relationships between these and the clinical risks are still unclear. Based on these considerations, the psychological co-morbidities potentially present in women with PCOS, such as depression, anxiety and eating disorders, as well as a decrease in self-esteem and quality of life, have been discussed in the review by Simon et al [35]. The authors underline that the first step is to perform a correct diagnosis, that the time-to-diagnosis should be short, and that clear information should be provided.…”

“…Very interesting are findings on the psychological effects of receiving a diagnosis of PCOS, which seem to have positive as well as negative effects. In fact, the diagnosis of PCOS is associated with specific treatment and lifestyle changes, but also with the fear of being infertile and of developing some chronic pathologies, such as diabetes mellitus [35]. Thus, four specific conditions should be always searched in women with PCOS, including anxiety, depression, reduced quality of life and eating disorders [36], using specific questionnaires that should be self-administrated at first visit and then re-assessed during treatments.…”