Polycystic ovarian syndrome It is the most common endocrine disorder, a chronic hormonal condition caused by imbalance in reproductive hormones, andThere are a variety of factors behind why women with PCOS feel depressed.
Insulin resistance
At a clinical level, insulin resistance can be one reason. about 70% of women with PCOS It is insulin resistant. Increased blood sugar levels and insulin resistance are linked to depression, but scientists don’t fully understand why.
2021 Stanford Medicine Research has found that people with insulin resistance are twice as likely to suffer from depression. Research published in 2023 Biochemistry and biophysics The report also found a link in which insulin resistance promotes neuroinflammation.
Insulin resistance occurs when muscles, fat and liver cells no longer respond to insulin, causing blood sugar levels to rise. The pancreas must produce more insulin to move glucose. The body cannot keep up, it cannot produce enough insulin, and excess sugar is stored as fat.
Inflammation and stress
PCOS often can cause inflammation in the body, like high cortisol. Increased stress Depression. Both high cortisol and insulin resistance can be promoted Weight gainwhich in turn can lead to stress depending on the appearance.
Some people have PCOS Increased androgen levels It can contribute to a change in mood. If androgens remain elevated for a long period of time, symptoms such as acne and excess hair can occur. This may be another factor that can contribute to stress and depression.
infertility
Many women with PCOS are depressed over them Can’t give birth to a child. Treatment for infertility can exacerbate depression and can also lead to failure, as it puts strain on your finances. Stress on the body can physically exhaust a woman when she is about to get pregnant.
Additionally, PCOS can increase pregnancy complications, leading to:
- Gestational diabetes
- Hypertension
- Preschool
- Premature birth
- C-section delivery due to hypertension and obesity
By recovering or dealing with this type of complication, someone may also experience more stress and depressive symptoms.
PCOS and other health conditions
In addition to depression, studies have found that PCOS is also linked Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)bipolar disorder, autism spectrum disorder, eating disorder, sleep disorder.
Other health conditions associated with PCOS include diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, endometrial hyperplasia, and endometrial cancer.
If you believe you have PCOS or your doctor is concerned, the tests include pelvic examinations, physical examinations, blood tests, or ultrasound to assist in a diagnosis.
Treatment of PCOS and depression
It is important to treat PCOS as well to control depression. Currently, there is no treatment for PCOS, but patients can manage their condition.
Contraception and diet
Included in PCOS treatment Contraceptives Eating more nutritious diets due to hormonal imbalances or insulin resistance. There are not many scientific studies that link the mood and diet of people with PCOS, but some studies have shown that Mediterranean dietmade up of fish, vegetables and legumes to protect people from depressive symptoms. A 2023 study in the Science Report found that women with PCOS who exercised had lower symptoms of depression than women with or without PCOS.
Treatment
In addition to lifestyle changes, to treat both PCOS and depression, you can discuss changes you feel from your condition and how to deal with, including talk therapy.
medicine
Antidepressants for depression are common, but some antidepressants can cause weight gain and lead to more harmful health effects. Sertraline, an SSRI, is commonly prescribed for women with PCOS, but further research needs to be done on how drug therapy can treat the side effects of the condition.
Other medications include Metforminis usually used for treatment Type 2 diabetes However, it can lower insulin and blood glucose levels. It is also known to improve ovulation and adjust duration.
supplement
If you’re looking for more overall measures, you’re taking omega 3 like fish oil Links to mood improvement. Acupuncture is known Increases blood flow Reduce the number of ovarian cysts in PCOS patients. It can also become a stress reliefer.
Overall, it’s important to find support if you have a PCOS. Whether it’s mental or physical support, this condition can wreak havoc in your body and your mind. If you are struggling with moderate or severe PCOS symptoms, please visit our healthcare provider.
