How Does PCOS Affect Your Moods?

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder that affects approximately 7%-10% of women of reproductive age. While it's well-known for symptoms like irregular periods, excess androgen levels, and ovarian cysts, PCOS can also have a significant impact on mental health and mood.

The OB/GYN team at Women’s Care of Beverly Hills wants to help you understand the connection between PCOS and mood changes so you feel empowered to manage your symptoms and improve your overall quality of life.

The connection between mood and PCOS

PCOS affects mood because the condition can lead to hormonal imbalances, including insulin resistance, and have an emotional toll on your day-to-day life.

One of the defining features of PCOS is an imbalance in reproductive hormones. When you have PCOS you usually have higher-than-normal levels of androgens (male hormones) and disruptions in the female sex hormones estrogen and progesterone.

These hormonal shifts can contribute to:

• Mood swings: Sudden fluctuations in hormones may result in unpredictable mood changes.
• Irritability: High androgen levels can affect brain function and mood regulation
• Anxiety and depression: Reported cases of these may be linked to both hormonal imbalances and other PCOS-related symptoms

Insulin resistance, commonly occurring with PCOS, can lead to unstable blood sugar levels. These fluctuations can directly impact your mood, resulting in fatigue, brain fog, and irritability.

Living with a chronic condition like PCOS can be emotionally challenging. Symptoms such as weight gain, acne, and excessive hair growth (hirsutism) can negatively affect your self-esteem and body image. Additionally, fertility challenges often associated with PCOS can bring feelings of frustration, grief, or hopelessness.

Managing mood changes with PCOS

While PCOS can feel overwhelming, we recommend the following strategies to help manage the emotional and psychological aspects of the condition:

1.      Lifestyle Changes

A healthy diet and regular exercise can help you manage the emotional impact of PCOS. Focus on eating a diet rich in whole foods, low in refined carbohydrates, and high in fiber to stabilize blood sugar levels and improve mood.

Physical activity not only helps with insulin sensitivity but also boosts endorphins, reducing anxiety and depression. If you have PCOS, mindfulness practices, yoga, and meditation can improve mental clarity and emotional balance.

2. Medical Treatments

For many PCOS patients, birth control pills or other hormonal treatments can help regulate cycles and mood swings.

If you have insulin resistance, we may suggest the drug metformin to improve both physical and emotional symptoms.

Antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications can provide relief if your mood changes are severe. We can also refer you to a therapist or to support groups for women with PCOS, which can help create a sense of community and provide coping tools for the emotional challenges of the condition.

Should you seek help?

If you’re experiencing severe mood changes, persistent sadness, or feelings of hopelessness, it’s important to seek help. Speak with a member of our team or a mental health professional to develop a comprehensive care plan tailored to your needs.

We here at Women’s Care of Beverly Hills are ready to help you with the hormonal, metabolic, and emotional aspects of PCOS so you can take steps toward feeling more balanced and in control. Call today or make an appointment online if you need help managing any aspect of PCOS.