Reconsidering Trauma in the Pathogenesis and Management of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: Link Between PCOS and Trauma

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) has always been described as an endocrine–metabolic condition; new research compels us to take into account its psychosexual aspects. In addition to genetic susceptibility and insulin resistance, trauma, especially emotional maltreatment throughout childhood, has been closely linked to the onset of PCOS. Depression, anxiety and negative childhood experiences, such as physical and sexual abuse, are considerably more common among women with PCOS. This connection might be mediated by hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis dysregulation, which is frequently seen in post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The co-occurrence of PCOS and trauma-related psychopathology points to a bidirectional interaction in which psychological distress and endocrine imbalance worsen one another. Therefore, regular mental health screening and trauma-informed care have to be incorporated into PCOS treatment. In addition to improving long-term reproductive and mental health outcomes, acknowledging the psychosocial aspects of PCOS may open up new channel for holistic management.

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