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Journal of Endocrinological Investigation

Open Access 15-03-2024 | Polycystic Ovary Syndrome | Review

Psychological symptoms and brain activity alterations in women with PCOS and their relation to the reduced quality of life: a narrative review

Authors: J. Pinto, N. Cera, D. Pignatelli

Published in: Journal of Endocrinological Investigation

Abstract

Background

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common feminine endocrine disorder, characterized by androgen excess, ovulatory dysfunction, and polycystic ovarian morphology. The negative impact of symptoms on the quality of life (QoL) of patients is still not clear.

Purpose

The present review aimed at studying the impact of the symptoms, the psychological symptoms, and brain alterations in women with PCOS.

Methods

A systematic search was undertaken for studies that assessed the impact of PCOS symptoms on QoL, psychological symptoms, and brain alterations in PCOS patients.

Results

Most of the information about QoL came from psychometric studies, which used culture-based questionnaires. Alterations of sleep quality, body image, and mood disorders can negatively affect the QoL of the patients. Sexual satisfaction and desire were affected by PCOS. Brain imaging studies showed functional alterations that are associated with impairments of visuospatial working memory, episodic and verbal memory, attention, and executive function.

Conclusions

Several factors can negatively influence the quality of life of the patients, and they are directly related to hyperandrogenism and the risk of infertility. In particular, obesity, hirsutism, acne, and the fear of infertility can have a direct impact on self-esteem and sexual function. Metabolic and psychiatric comorbidities, such as mood, anxiety, and eating disorders, can affect the well-being of the patients. Moreover, specific cognitive alterations, such as impairments in attention and memory, can limit PCOS patients in a series of aspects of daily life.

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Title: Psychological symptoms and brain activity alterations in women with PCOS and their relation to the reduced quality of life: a narrative review
Authors: J. Pinto
N. Cera
D. Pignatelli
Publication date: 15-03-2024
Publisher: Springer International Publishing
Keywords: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Androgens
Mild Cognitive Impairment
Affective Disorder
Infertility
Anxiety
Hirsutism
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Published in: Journal of Endocrinological Investigation
Electronic ISSN: 1720-8386
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s40618-024-02329-y

ACC 2024 Congress Coverage

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At a glance: The ONWARDS insulin icodec trials

Springer Medicine

Psychological symptoms and brain activity alterations in women with PCOS and their relation to the reduced quality of life: a narrative review

Abstract

Background

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusions

ACC 2024 Congress Coverage

Year in Review: Heart failure and cardiomyopathies

Semaglutide benefits people with type 2 diabetes and obesity-related heart failure

Incentivised to exercise

New intervention for STEMI-related cardiogenic shock

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At a glance: The ONWARDS insulin icodec trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusions

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ACC 2024 Congress Coverage

Year in Review: Heart failure and cardiomyopathies

Semaglutide benefits people with type 2 diabetes and obesity-related heart failure

Incentivised to exercise

New intervention for STEMI-related cardiogenic shock

» View more highlights on the ACC 2024 congress hub page