Individuals with PCOS are 3x more likely to report poor or very poor health in their mid-40s.[1] In this article, we explore the link between PCOS and health and wellbeing during perimenopause, the time of transition between the reproductive years and menopause.[2]

PCOS is associated with elevated levels of androgens[3], sex hormones that are produced in the ovaries, start at puberty and play a key role in reproductive health.[4]  Find out more about PCOS and Androgen Excess.

These elevated androgens result in an array of potential symptoms and health complications in individuals with PCOS, including but not limited to:

• Changes in appearance;

• Menstrual symptoms;

• Reproductive health complications;

• Mental health complications;

• Sexual health complications;

• Metabolic health complications; and

• Increased risk for certain types of cancer.

During perimenopause, individuals start producing lower levels of estrogen and progesterone,[5] chemical messengers or hormones responsible for regulating important processes across the reproductive, skeletal, cardiovascular and central nervous systems.[6] 

As a result of these hormonal changes, perimenopause shares a number of common symptoms with PCOS:[7]

• Acne and skin problems;

• Irregular or missed periods;

• Headaches;

• Infertility;

• Mood changes;

• Sleep difficulties;

• Thinning hair on the head;

• Unwanted hair growth; and

• Weight gain.

The onset of perimenopause can therefore compound pre-existing health concerns of individuals with PCOS, although some report that the burden of the condition is reduced.[8]

As a result of these shared symptoms, PCOS can be very difficult to diagnose during perimenopause. 

Reviewed by Dr. K, one of Neuraura’s friends and trusted advisors

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Sources

[1] https://obgyn.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/aogs.14382

[2] https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/perimenopause/symptoms-causes/syc-20354666

[3] https://www.uptodate.com/contents/polycystic-ovary-syndrome-pcos-beyond-the-basics/

[4] https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/22002-androgens

[5] https://www.healthline.com/health/menopause/pcos-and-menopause#hormones

[6] https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/22353-estrogen

[7] https://www.healthline.com/health/menopause/pcos-and-menopause#symptoms

[8] https://www.healthline.com/health/menopause/pcos-and-menopause#symptoms