Study Shows Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Increases Suicide Risk Among Women
SALT LAKE CITY — According to a recent study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine, as many as 1 in 8 women of childbearing age in the U.S. suffer from polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). This condition, characterized by infertility, irregular periods, hair growth, acne, and weight gain, has been found to increase the risk of self-harm and suicide attempts. The study, conducted by researchers at Taipei Veterans General Hospital in Taiwan, revealed a troubling statistic — women with PCOS are over eight times more likely to engage in self-harm when compared to those without the condition.
Previous research has proposed that the increased risk of self-harm among women with PCOS could be attributed to societal expectations, rather than solely the burden of the condition itself. PCOS is often accompanied by psychiatric conditions, such as anxiety and depression. This, along with the physical and hormonal changes associated with PCOS, contributes to the higher risk of mental illness and self-harm. However, it is important to note that polycystic ovary syndrome can be effectively treated, and women diagnosed with it can lead normal and fulfilling lives.
Understanding Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Polycystic ovary syndrome is a hormonal imbalance that affects the female reproductive system, potentially leading to infertility, obesity, and excessive hair growth. It is characterized by irregular periods and the development of ovarian cysts. Common symptoms include hair thinning, weight gain, darkening of the skin, and the presence of skin tags. Estimated read time: 4-5 minutes
While many individuals are first diagnosed with PCOS in their 20s and 30s when they experience difficulties getting pregnant, the condition can manifest at any time after puberty. Factors such as obesity and a family history of PCOS can increase the risk of developing the syndrome, which has also been linked to other health concerns such as thyroid disease, unhealthy cholesterol levels, sleep apnea, depression and anxiety, and endometrial cancer. It is important to distinguish PCOS from other similar conditions such as thyroid disease, as the symptoms and treatment methods may differ.
Study Findings
The recent study from Taiwan that examined the risk of self-harm among PCOS patients revealed alarming results. Researchers analyzed data from 18,960 individuals with PCOS, matched with 10 control subjects each, based on various factors including age, psychiatric conditions, and income. The study found that PCOS patients exhibited an 8.47-fold increased risk of suicide attempts across different age groups, ranging from adolescents to older adults. Notably, adolescents with PCOS had a fivefold risk, while individuals aged 20 to 40 had a nine times higher risk.
While researchers are still striving to fully comprehend the exact reasons behind the elevated suicide risk among PCOS patients, a few theories have been proposed. Fluctuations in hormones associated with PCOS could conceivably increase distress and contribute to the risk. Others speculate that the presence of associated conditions such as Type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure, which are often linked to PCOS, may exacerbate symptoms of depression.
Psychologist Hillary Ammon from the Center for Anxiety & Women’s Emotional Wellness emphasized the importance of healthcare providers taking PCOS symptoms seriously, as many affected women have reported feeling dismissed or misdiagnosed. Treatment for polycystic ovary syndrome varies but can involve the administration of hormonal birth control, antiandrogen medications, and metformin. Additionally, adopting healthy lifestyle habits, regular exercise, and maintaining a proper diet can alleviate PCOS-related symptoms and improve long-term health outcomes. Even a moderate weight loss of 10 percent can have a positive impact on menstrual regularity and increase pregnancy chances for women with PCOS.
As researchers continue to investigate this concerning nexus between PCOS and self-harm, routine monitoring of mental health among individuals diagnosed with PCOS is crucial. By increasing awareness and providing comprehensive care, individuals with PCOS can receive the support they need to lead fulfilling and healthy lives.
