Insulin Resistance, Hyperandrogenism, and Its Associated Symptoms Are the Precipitating Factors for Depression in Women With Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a combination of many symptoms resulting from hormonal imbalance, metabolic syndromes, hyperandrogenism, and anovulation. This paper explores the various etiopathology and mechanisms causing depression in women with PCOS and how to prevent and treat PCOS-induced depression. Women with PCOS present with multiple symptoms such as acne, hirsutism, androgenic alopecia, obesity, menstrual irregularities, infertility, and mood disturbances like depression and anxiety. Depression is the most common psychological problem faced by women with PCOS. The various pathophysiological mechanisms that lead to depression are Insulin resistance, disturbance in the hypothalamic pituitary adrenal (HPA) axis, hyperandrogenism and its clinical presentation, obesity, and infertility. Lifestyle modifications such as dietary changes and weight loss play a significant role in preventing and managing PCOS-induced depression. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and lifestyle modification have shown to be effective measures for weight loss in obese women with PCOS. Antidepressants also play a part in treating PCOS-induced depression. Over the last decade, the number of cases of depression in women with PCOS has increased. This paper provides detailed data on the fundamental causes of depression in women with PCOS to facilitate a more straightforward treatment approach.