Have you ever had one of those days where you felt like you were on an emotional seesaw, swinging between highs and lows without any clear reason? You're not alone. Many factors influence your moods, but there's one culprit that often flies under the radar: PCOS.
PCOS, or polycystic ovary syndrome, is a hormonal disorder that affects many women — especially during their reproductive years. It's marked by a collection of symptoms that can range from irregular periods to acne and hair thinning.
But the effects of PCOS aren’t just physical. The emotional and psychological toll it takes is significant, and understanding this connection is crucial for improving your well-being.
At his practice in White Plains and Queens, New York, board-certified OB/GYN Daniel S. Kushner, MD, specializes in diagnosing and treating PCOS. With years of experience and a deep understanding of the emotional aspects of this condition, Dr. Kushner has helped countless women navigate it.
Have you been wondering about the link between PCOS and those unpredictable mood swings? Here, we dive deeper into the connection.
At its core, PCOS is a hormonal imbalance. When you have PCOS, your body produces more androgens — sometimes referred to as “male” hormones — than it should. This shift in hormones can cause a ripple effect throughout the body, leading to various symptoms.
Here's a look at some of the most common symptoms, which can vary and range in intensity for each person diagnosed with PCOS:
It's a challenging mix of symptoms, and they aren’t the only effects you can experience from PCOS. There’s no question that this condition has an emotional and psychological side.
It's natural to think that the hormonal shifts in PCOS directly cause mood swings — and to an extent, that's true. When your hormones are out of balance, it can lead to mood changes, the way you might experience mood shifts before or during a period. But with PCOS, it's a bit more layered than that.
Acne, weight gain, hair thinning — these symptoms can significantly affect how you view yourself. And if your self-confidence drops, it can lead to feelings of isolation and depression, triggering mood swings.
PCOS is one of the main causes of infertility. The mere thought or reality of struggling to conceive can be emotionally draining, leading to feelings of sadness, frustration, and anxiety. That's a heavy burden to carry, and it can undoubtedly influence your mood.
Beyond the obvious hormonal factors, some studies suggest that people with PCOS may have an altered stress response. This can mean stronger reactions to any stressors, further contributing to any mood issues you’re experiencing.
Understanding PCOS is one thing, but finding personalized, effective treatment is another. That's where specialists like Dr. Kushner can help. Our team helps you manage all aspects of your condition. Here’s how:
PCOS isn't a one-size-fits-all condition. Dr. Kushner creates a treatment plan that's crafted just for you.
Treating PCOS isn’t just about managing physical symptoms. Dr. Kushner understands the emotional toll this condition takes, and he incorporates strategies to address both mind and body symptoms.
PCOS research is ongoing. By seeking personalized PCOS treatment from a board-certified provider like Dr. Kushner, you gain access to the latest findings and treatments, including options like:
Life with PCOS can sometimes feel like a roller coaster of emotions, but with understanding and specialized care, there's hope. If mood swings have you feeling out of sorts and you're looking for answers, Dr. Kushner and our team are here to guide, support, and empower you every step of the way.
Learn more about PCOS and the link to mood swings by scheduling an appointment online or over the phone with Dr. Kushner at the New York location nearest you.
