PCOS and mental health: a crucial connection

This month, we’re putting a spotlight on PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) for PCOS Awareness Month, recognizing the millions of women affected by this condition. In our community and across the world, PCOS impacts an estimated 8–13% of reproductive-aged women, according to the WHO. Despite its prevalence, up to 70% of women remain undiagnosed, often discovering their condition only when they face fertility challenges.

Understanding PCOS and its impact on fertility

PCOS disrupts ovulation, leading to irregular or absent menstrual cycles, which is one of the key symptoms. Without regular ovulation, conceiving naturally becomes difficult. However, knowledge about how to identify PCOS is unfortunately still not wide spread, with many women first learning about their PCOS when trying to get pregnant.

The overlooked mental health toll of PCOS

While the physical effects of PCOS are more often discussed, the mental health challenges linked to the condition are frequently overlooked. Did you know that women with PCOS are up to eight times more likely to experience depression than women without it?

The connection between PCOS and mental health is complex, influenced by both the physical symptoms and the hormonal imbalances caused by the condition.

Common symptoms of PCOS include:

- Irregular menstrual cycles

- Acne or oily skin

- Excessive hair growth (hirsutism)

- Hair thinning or male-pattern baldness

- Weight gain, particularly around the abdomen

Each of these symptoms can lead to negative body image, social stigma, and emotional stress. For example, obesity—common in women with PCOS—can contribute to depression, and the infertility associated with PCOS adds an additional emotional burden.

However, these symptoms alone don’t fully explain the heightened risk of depression in PCOS patients. Research suggests that the hormonal imbalances and metabolic effects of PCOS may directly impact mental well-being.

Managing mental health with PCOS

If you’re living with PCOS and struggling with your mental health, know that you’re not alone. While PCOS can be tough to manage, there are ways to reduce the impact of both the physical and mental symptoms.

Studies have shown that Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is highly effective for women with PCOS, helping to reduce body dissatisfaction, anxiety, and depression . This is promising news for women facing the emotional challenges of PCOS.

Emotional Support for PCOS: A Missing Piece

Unfortunately, only 3.4% of women are satisfied with the emotional support they receive following a PCOS diagnosis, and for over 60%, emotional support was never offered or even discussed. This highlights a significant gap in care that needs urgent attention.

At Tilly, we are committed to raising awareness and ensuring that women with PCOS receive the emotional support they deserve. Thankfully, awareness is growing, and with ongoing research and initiatives, the future looks brighter for PCOS patients.

Together, we can create meaningful change. Let’s continue to advocate for better care, both physically and mentally, for everyone affected by PCOS.

Psst. And yes, naturally CBT is one of the corner stones of the support we have created in Tilly. If you are struggling, don't hesitate to pop in to the app to find advice on how to manage the emotional struggles and to connect with others in our supportive community.