Mood Disorders and Quality of Life in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

The 2015 document reports that polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is associated with a high prevalence of mood disorders, with depression affecting 28% to 64% and anxiety affecting 34% to 57% of women with PCOS. The physical manifestations of PCOS, such as hirsutism and obesity, contribute to psychological issues, including impaired sexual functioning and social maladjustment. The review emphasizes the need for mental health assessments in the initial evaluation of women with PCOS and suggests that treatments like oral contraceptives may improve emotional distress and quality of life. It also notes the broader clinical implications of PCOS, including increased risk for metabolic conditions in relatives and the impact of PCOS on neuroticism, stress coping, anger, and overall quality of life. The paper concludes that treatment for PCOS should address both physical and psychiatric symptoms.