New Study Reveals Alarming Link Between PCOS and Suicide Risk
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) affects approximately 1 in 10 women of childbearing age and is known for causing a range of distressing symptoms such as metabolism issues, acne, unwanted hair growth, and infertility. However, a recent study conducted in Taiwan has shed light on an even more concerning aspect of this condition – its association with a significantly higher risk of suicide. The study, published in the prestigious medical journal Annals of Internal Medicine, analyzed data from over 18,000 women and found that those diagnosed with PCOS were more than eight times more likely to attempt suicide compared to those without the condition.
While this is not the first time that PCOS has been linked to suicide, previous studies have also highlighted the increased risk. A nationwide Swedish study in 2016 revealed that women with PCOS were 40% more likely to attempt suicide than their counterparts, and a more recent study in 2022 found that a recent PCOS diagnosis was associated with a higher risk of suicidal thoughts. Experts in women’s health have been exploring the reasons behind this alarming connection.
One possible explanation lies in the fact that PCOS is often accompanied by anxiety and depression. Clinical psychologist Hillary Ammon from the Center for Anxiety & Women’s Emotional Wellness explains that women with PCOS are more prone to mental health conditions and other medical issues like type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure. These conditions can act as risk factors that exacerbate depression, potentially leading to an increased likelihood of suicidal thoughts. However, the exact underlying cause for this correlation remains unclear. Dr. Michelle Roach, an assistant professor of clinical obstetrics and gynecology at Vanderbilt Health, states, “That’s something we don’t have a clear answer for.”
The symptoms of PCOS can be incredibly stressful to manage, further compounding the risk of depression. Dr. Tamar Gur, a women’s health expert and reproductive psychiatrist at the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, notes that individuals with PCOS face an elevated risk of infertility, which can be emotionally taxing for those desiring to start a family. Additionally, irregular menstrual cycles and hormonal fluctuations associated with PCOS may contribute to the increased vulnerability to depression among affected women. Dr. Gur explains, “All women go through hormonal fluctuations of menstruation, but there’s a subset of women who are exquisitely susceptible to these hormonal fluctuations.”
Another factor that may contribute to the mental health challenges faced by women with PCOS is the feeling of being dismissed or misdiagnosed by medical professionals when sharing their symptoms. Ammon emphasizes that many women report feeling discouraged and frustrated due to these experiences, which can worsen symptoms of depression.
Fortunately, there are treatment options available for PCOS. If diagnosed with the condition, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider to ensure appropriate care. Hormonal birth control, antiandrogen medicines, and metformin are among the treatments recommended by the U.S. Office on Women’s Health. However, it is essential to have open discussions with your doctor about your lifestyle and family planning goals to determine the most suitable treatment approach for you. Dr. Gur emphasizes the seriousness of PCOS, stating, “This is a serious condition that should be taken seriously.”
For individuals struggling mentally while dealing with PCOS, seeking support is crucial. Dr. Roach advises reaching out to healthcare providers such as primary care physicians or ob-gyns, who can refer patients to mental health therapists specializing in this area. Dr. Gur reassures individuals that help is available and encourages them not to hesitate in seeking assistance. She states, “This is real, and you should have a low bar for reaching out for help. This is something to take seriously.”
It is important to note that if you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts, immediate action should be taken. Call 911 or reach out to the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 or 1-800-273-8255. Alternatively, you can text HOME to the Crisis Text Line at 741741.
The link between PCOS and suicide risk is a concerning revelation that demands attention. By raising awareness about this issue and ensuring that individuals with PCOS receive the necessary support and treatment, we can work towards reducing the distressing impact of this condition on women’s mental health.
