Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a heterogeneous and multifactorial disorder which is accompanied by gynecological, reproductive and metabolic comorbidities, such as infertility, a higher prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors, such as hypertension, dyslipidemia and type 2 diabetes as well as an increased risk of the development of cancer, e.g. endometrial cancer. There is evidence that patients with PCOS are at a high risk for reduced quality of life and psychological disturbances in comparison to women of the same age. In addition, PCOS is also associated with an increased risk for affective disorders, such as depressive episodes, dysthymic disorders and bipolar disorders aswell as anxiety symptoms. Although the clinical features of PCOS (e.g. irregular cycles, infertility, hyperandrogenism and obesity) affect the health-related quality of life, there is still some debate on whether the increased prevalence of psychological disorders is due to the PCOS itself or is induced by the symptoms. To date, a general screening with respect to psychological comorbidities of all women with PCOS is not recommended; nevertheless, a psychological assessment should be considered during the gynecological consultation and if necessary interdisciplinary therapeutic measures should be initiated.
