Can You Die from PCOS?
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a complex health condition that may lead to many complications, but it is not directly a life-threatening condition. However, it is essential to diagnose PCOS and monitor the progression of the disease. If left untreated or unnoticed, it can be fatal. Therefore, it is necessary to manage PCOS symptoms and maintain a healthy lifestyle to reduce these risks.
What Is PCOS?
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is an endocrine disorder [1].
It affects roughly 5-10% of women in their reproductive age. However, it is hypothesised that the total number is more significant, but a lot of women are undiagnosed [2, 3, 4].
PCOS is characterized by hyperandrogenism, ovulary dysfunction and polycystic ovaries [5, 6].
Hyperandrogenism is a condition in which a person has excessive production of androgens or male hormones. This condition leads to excessive hair growth, acne, or male-pattern baldness [7, 4].
Ovulatory dysfunction is a condition referring to your ovulation being absent. It leads to menstrual irregularities and infertility [8, 9].
Other symptoms accompanying the disease are a wide range of metabolic disorders, including insulin resistance, obesity and also increased risk of diabetes and cardiovascular diseases [1, 5, 6, 10, 11].
Although the exact cause of PCOS is unknown, it is a multifactorial disorder with various genetic, endocrine, and environmental abnormalities [3, 5, 6, 10, 11].
Is PCOS Dangerous?
PCOS is a common endocrine disorder, and its symptoms or manifestations should not be life-threatening. However, it is crucial to remember that the severity and type of risks vary among individuals [12].
That said, one of the primary concerns with PCOS is its impact on reproductive health. Women with PCOS have a higher risk of hypertension, preeclampsia, and gestational diabetes mellitus induced by pregnancy [13]. In fact, PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) can contribute to infertility in women.
Another concern is the significant risk associated with PCOS and the development of endometrial cancer. This is particularly significant during the premenopausal period [13].
PCOS is also associated with an increased prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors. These include hypertension, dyslipidemia and type-2 diabetes mellitus [13].
Some studies have shown, however, that this increased risk does not necessarily translate into a higher mortality rate. For example, one study identified that there is no difference in all-cause mortality or cardiovascular disease-related mortality between women with and without PCOS [14]. Another study established that the 10-year mortality rate was similar for women with and without PCOS.
Another area of concern for women with PCOS is their mental health. Interestingly, women with PCOS are at higher risk of experiencing mood disorders such as anxiety or depression [13]. With this in mind, there was research done suggesting that women with PCOS have a higher risk of non-suicidal self-injury and suicidal ideation [16].
Despite these risks and the complications women with PCOS can experience, the majority of women can live healthy lives with appropriate management and care. Women with such syndrome should also make sure to do regular follow-ups and check-ups with their clinicians to monitor, spot, and prevent any potential complications [13]. Find out whether ashwagandha is helpful with PCOS.
Can You Die From PCOS?
Although PCOS is associated with numerous health problems, the condition should not be life-threatening.
As mentioned above, there are some complications that may arise due to PCOS. These include cardiovascular problems, diabetes or obesity associations as well as mental health issues.
Since women with PCOS often experience depression as a result of the condition, this may lead to a higher risk of suicide [17].
However, the question of whether it can be entirely attributed to PCOS is questionable. Thus, while PCOS itself may not directly cause death, it can contribute to other health conditions that carry a risk of mortality.