Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Health Effects

Women with polycystic ovary syndrome can be at an increased risk for developing several other conditions.

Irregular menstrual periods and the absence of ovulation cause women to produce estrogen, but not progesterone. Without progesterone, which causes the endometrium to shed each month as a menstrual period, the endometrium may grow too much and undergo cell changes. This is a pre-cancerous condition called endometrial hyperplasia. If the thickened endometrium is not treated, over a long period of time it may turn into endometrial cancer. Polycystic ovary syndrome also is linked to other diseases that occur later in life, such as insulin resistance, Type II diabetes, high cholesterol, hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis), high blood pressure, and heart disease.

Depression or mood swings also are common in women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Although more research is needed to find out about this link, there are studies linking depression to diabetes. Therefore, in polycystic ovary syndrome, depression may be related to insulin resistance. It also could be a result of the hormonal imbalances and the cosmetic symptoms of the condition. Acne, hair loss, and other symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome can lead to poor self-esteem. Infertility and miscarriages also can be very stressful. Medications that restore the balance to hormone levels or antidepressants can help these feelings.