Mental Health and PCOS
Mental health is just as important to an individual as physical and overall well-being, in every stage of life. It includes emotional, psychological, and social wellness and affects how one feels, thinks, and acts.
Mental health and PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) often go hand in hand. Women with PCOS are likely to experience many health issues like sadness, anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorders, and eating disorders. Many recent studies have scientifically proven a direct link between certain aspects of PCOS and mental health, drawing attention to the complex interplay between PCOS and psychosocial problems. Now, the scientific literature assuredly demonstrates that PCOS-affected women have significantly greater levels of psychological discomfort, depression, anxiety, and social phobias
Anxiety and depression are two emotional health issues that are most commonly seen in women with PCOS but are often neglected and therefore not treated. Thankfully, different treatment options offered by the best gyne in Mumbai Dr. Shilpa Bansal Agrawal can gently help minimize the symptoms of both PCOS and mental health issues.
What is PCOS?
PCOS is a female reproductive health condition, a hormonal imbalance wherein the ovaries start to produce an unusual amount of androgens-the male hormone, which is normally present in females at low levels. It affects women who are of childbearing age (15-44 years old). The name Polycystic Ovary Syndrome refers to the numerous fluid-filled sacs called cysts that are formed in the ovaries. However, not all PCOS-affected women have cysts in their ovaries.
PCOS has a negative impact on the ovaries. The ovary is a female reproductive organ that normally produces female hormones (estrogen and progesterone), which regulates the menstrual cycle and even small amounts of androgens.
Ovulation is a process in which mature eggs are released every month from the ovaries to be further fertilized by the sperm of a male and let women conceive a child. In some women, there are insufficient hormones (Luteinising hormone and Follicle Stimulating hormone) that are required by the body to regulate ovulation. But if fertilization does not take place, these mature eggs are removed from the ovaries and sent out of the female body through her menstrual flow.
When ovulation does not happen, the ovaries can develop multiple small cysts. These cysts are ovarian follicles, each one containing an immature egg. Therefore, PCOS is a group of symptoms that affects the ovaries and ovulation.
Medical experts are undergoing research to find the definite cause of PCOS. As per them, the high levels of male reproductive hormones and low levels of estrogen, progesterone, LH, and FSH is the reason behind the ovaries producing eggs abnormally. Genes, inflammation, autoimmunity, and insulin resistance, have all been associated with the excess production of andro-gens, thereby contributing to PCOS.
One can consult the PCOS expert doctor in Mumbai, Dr. Shilpa Bansal Agrawal, to get the advantages of the best PCOS treatment offered by her at Harleys Cosmetic & Women Clinic, located in Mumbai, India. Many females suffering from mental health issues caused by their PCOS have recovered from the best treatment outcome offered by the doctor, and it has also helped them to regain back their confidence and overall well-being.
What are the Symptoms of PCOS?
How does PCOS Affect Mental Health?
In women with PCOS, the neurotransmitters like serotonin and others are typically present in low amounts. The neurotransmitters are chemicals that help send signals throughout the brain and nervous system. Serotonin is one such chemical messenger found in the nervous system and is associated with positive feelings. Due to low levels of these neurotransmitters, PCOS-affected women experience increased anxiety and despair symptoms.
The research has shown that experiencing PCOS symptoms has an ill effect on the self-confidence, mood, and body image of women. This can be due to the physical symptoms, hormonal imbalances, and societal pressure to conform to beauty standards.
It has even been shown that the longer it takes for a woman to receive a diagnosis of PCOS, the more likely she will get depressed or feel anxious. It is difficult to deal with PCOS symptoms when their exact cause is unknown. Hence, consulting with a PCOS expert is a must to get it diagnosed and treated at the initial stages.
How to treat PCOS and Related Mental Health Issues?
Consulting a gynecologist in Mumbai can help any woman who experiences body insecurities associated with PCOS. For PCOS treatment, it is essential to treat its symptoms like hirsutism, obesity, acne, infertility, or mental health issues. The treatment might include lifestyle modifications or hormone-regulating medications- both of which can support the overall well-being, including both physical and mental health, of women suffering from PCOS.
Exercise can be an effective addition to the treatment of mild to moderate depression and can help in reducing anxiety as well as relapse of depression. Physical activities must be considered as a supplement for standard treatment options, particularly for those suffering from severe depression. However, different kinds of physical activities at light, moderate, or strenuous levels can be equally effective in managing depression.
It is important for individuals with PCOS to prioritize their mental health and seek support from a mental health professional if needed. The relationship between PCOS and mental health is complex and multifaceted, and it is important for healthcare providers to address both physical and psychological aspects of the disorder.
Harleys Cosmetic and Womens Clinic
101-102, Jyoti Tower, DN Nagar,
Next to Nav Chaitanya, off Link Road,
Andheri West, Mumbai - 400053. Locate us
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