TLDR
  • Women diagnosed with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome are eight times more likely to attempt suicide compared to those without the condition
  • PCOS affects up to 15% of reproductive-age women in the United States, totaling approximately six million individuals
  • It is associated with various health issues, including metabolic disorders like Diabetes and cardiovascular problems such as High blood pressure and Stroke
  • Adolescents and young adults with PCOS face a significantly higher risk of suicide attempts, possibly due to factors such as concerns about infertility and body image
  • Although there are limitations in research proving a direct cause-and-effect relationship, numerous studies consistently demonstrate a significant link between PCOS and mental health issues such as depression and anxiety

    • Recent research suggests that women diagnosed with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) may be at a heightened risk of attempting suicide. 

    A recent large-scale study, including more than 18,000 women, has revealed a concerning link between Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and a higher risk of suicide attempts. 

    Individuals with PCOS are eight times more likely to attempt suicide compared to those without the condition.

    PCOS, a prevalent health condition affecting approximately one in ten women in the UK, often flies under the radar without proper diagnosis.

    It manifests through various symptoms, ranging from irregular periods and acne to obesity and cysts in the ovaries. 

    Recognized by the World Health Organization as a primary cause of infertility, PCOS presents a significant health concern for affected individuals.

    It impacts up to 15% of women of reproductive age in the United States, totaling about six million individuals. 

    This condition is linked to higher chances of metabolic issues such as Diabetes and metabolic syndrome, along with cardiovascular problems like high blood pressure and stroke.

    Additionally, PCOS is connected to fertility problems, weight gain, excess hair growth (hirsutism), and changes in skin texture.

    Research also indicates that these physical changes can contribute to lower self-esteem and mental health issues like depression and anxiety.

    A study conducted by researchers at Taipei Veterans General Hospital in Taiwan delved into nationwide data encompassing nearly 9,000 women and girls aged 12 to 64 diagnosed with PCOS between 1997 and 2012.

    Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
    Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)



    The study matched groups by age, income, urbanization, and mental health. 

    It found that women with PCOS had an 8.47 times higher risk of attempting suicide over 16 years compared to those without the condition.

    Older women with PCOS had a slightly lower risk than younger ones, but they still faced a higher risk compared to older women without PCOS. 

    Similar results have been observed in studies conducted in other countries.

    Ricardo Azziz, MD, MPH, MBA, a professor at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, suggests that the study may have missed some women with PCOS, and those who were included may have had more severe cases.

    According to Azziz, the results indicate that women with PCOS are more likely to have mental health issues, and it’s important for both healthcare providers and patients, along with their families, to recognize and address these risks.

    The results revealed a clear truth: People with PCOS are much more likely to try to take their own lives compared to those who don’t have the condition.

    This heightened risk was especially pronounced among adolescents and younger adults under 40, even after factoring in variables such as psychiatric disorders and other health conditions.

    The higher chance of suicide attempts among PCOS sufferers is believed to stem from multiple factors, chief among them being concerns surrounding infertility and body image. 


    Adolescents with PCOS often struggle with body image problems like feeling overweight and dealing with acne, which can increase their risk of suicide.

    Similarly, young adults may face difficulties such as joblessness, money problems, and relationship issues, worsening their mental health.

    While the study highlights a notable correlation between PCOS and suicide risk, it’s imperative to acknowledge its limitations. 

    Nevertheless, these findings harmonize with earlier research that emphasizes the link between PCOS and mental health adversities such as depression and anxiety.

    Although research on PCOS and its impact on mental health is limited, it’s crucial for individuals to know that help is available.

    Getting help from healthcare providers or organizations like the NHS can be a crucial step in dealing with mental health issues related to PCOS.

    In conclusion, the study’s findings cast a spotlight on how imperative it is to address mental health apprehensions among those diagnosed with PCOS.

    By raising awareness and providing strong support networks, healthcare professionals can significantly help reduce the risk of suicide attempts and improve the overall well-being of women with PCOS.