Why are Women With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome at Increased Risk of Depression? Exploring the Etiological Maze

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex and common multisystemic disorder. Women with PCOS have up to eight times higher prevalence of depression than control groups. This paper aims to explore the underlying risk factors for developing depression in this high-risk group. Studies indicate an interplay of multiple mechanisms that place women with PCOS at an increased risk for depression. The pathophysiology thought to play a role includes disturbances in the endocrine axes and changes to the metabolic pathway. The risk of depression is independently linked to insulin resistance and obesity in this population. However, rates of depression were still higher than control groups when accounting for these variables, demonstrating that they are not the only mechanism causing depression. The clinical manifestations of hyperandrogenism and menstrual abnormalities may compound negative views and lower self-esteem and negatively impact mood. Many of these women also struggle with infertility, and due to the added external pressures like societal beliefs and culture, they may be further negatively impacted and worsen their depressive symptoms. The prevalence of depression in women with PCOS is high; thus, this paper highlights the essential understanding of the underlying mechanisms at play. This is to better aid in addressing the fundamental cause of depression in this high-risk group effectively.