Common Reproductive Disorder PCOS Linked to Memory Problems in Middle Age

Women with polycystic ovary syndrome, or PCOS, are more likely to face memory problems in middle age, a new study finds.

PCOS is a common, hormonal condition that causes irregular periods, excess hair growth, acne, infertility and poor metabolic health.

Researchers recruited more than 900 healthy women, 18-30 years old, and followed them for three decades.

The participants…including 66 who eventually developed PCOS…. took a series of cognitive tests at the end.

Those with PCOS scored lower on three of the five tests for memory, attention and verbal abilities, according to the results.

About a third of the women also had brain scans, and researchers found women with polycystic ovary syndrome had lower white matter integrity, which may indicate early evidence of brain aging.

One study author says, “This could impact a person on many levels, including quality of life, career success and financial security.”

She says more research is needed to see what changes PCOS patients can make to reduce their odds of cognitive decline, including incorporating more cardiovascular exercise and improving mental health.