How PCOS Affects Mood

While fertility issues are the primary manifestation of polycystic ovarian syndrome, the disease can have far-reaching impact in other areas as well. Some experts even go so far as to say that there is a definite link between PCOS and a clinical diagnosis of anxiety. Polycystic ovarian syndrome affects a woman's hormone levels of testosterone and androgen which are both closely related to mood issues. Insulin resistance and diabetes are both considered risk factors for anxiety and depression, and women with PCOS often have accompanying insulin resistance which is a major contributor to diabetes.

Hormonal Imbalances and Mood

Aside from the physical symptoms which can cause anxiety, depression and mood swings, there is also the emotional side of the disease itself. A woman who is trying to conceive but having no success due to her PCOS is certainly likely to experience mood issues, as is the woman who has experienced multiple miscarriages due to PCOS. The misdirected endocrine system of PCOS and the many hormonal imbalances, have a distinct effect on the mind, as the body requires specific levels of hormones to be steadily maintained. In a properly functioning body, there is constant monitoring and adjustment of hormone levels, however in a body suffering from PCOS, the monitoring process is thrown off-kilter, resulting in insulin resistance.

External Influences

The drug Clomid has long been prescribed as a method of inducing ovulation in women with PCOS. Unfortunately, Clomid also blocks the estrogen receptors on the hypothalamus-a part of the brain which monitors hormone levels. This hormone-blocking process convinces the body that it is lacking in sufficient estrogen, causing it to produce more follicle-stimulating hormones and leutinizing hormones which increase the chances of fertilization. Of course in the effort to achieve pregnancy, this is the goal of the drug Clomid, however the fluctuation of estrogen and testosterone levels can cause significant mood swings. It is well known that estrogen has a direct effect on serotonin and endorphins in the body-both which directly affect mood and emotions.

For many women the term "mood swings" does not adequately convey the sheer enormity of the emotions which seem to be crashing down on them. A 2004 study noted a positive correlation between insulin resistance and severe depression symptoms, and since insulin resistance is very common in women with PCOS, it stands to reason that depression will accompany polycystic ovarian syndrome. Many women who suffer from PCOS can experience body-numbing fatigue, weight gain, and other symptoms which in turn lead to depression, mood swings and anxiety. Unfortunately, these mental manifestations of a physical issue are not always perceived by physicians and health care providers as a medical concern. When women are not taken seriously regarding their emotional symptoms, it can become a vicious cycle, leading to deeper depression.

If you have PCOS and have experienced extreme anxiety or depression which impacts your ability to function on a daily basis, seek professional help, and ask about a prescription for a low-dose anti-anxiety drug. Left untreated, severe depression and anxiety can cause further physical problems such as ulcers or high blood pressure, making it even harder for you to become pregnant.