PCOS & Eating Disorders: What’s the Connection?

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common endocrine disorders among people with ovaries of reproductive age, affecting up to 20% of people that fit this description.

Some of the common symptoms of PCOS include:

• Missed or irregular periods
• Excess body hair
• Weight gain, especially around the abdomen, or obesity
• Acne
• Hair loss
• Infertility
• High levels of testosterone
• Depression

These symptoms often mean that people with PCOS are advised by doctors to lose weight. Yet, dieting has been shown to be a risk factor and highly predictive of later development of an eating disorder. In fact, one study found that female participants who dieted at a moderate level were 5x more likely to develop an eating disorder.

How Are PCOS and Eating Disorders Connected?

Numerous studies have asserted a frequent coexistence of PCOS and mental disorders, specifically eating disorders like body dysmorphia, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder. 

One study found that people with PCOS reported a high prevalence of overall eating disorders (21%), compared to only 4% of those without PCOS. The research also found that, “Eating disorders can have significant negative influence on the outcome of the treatment of PCOS.”

Still, the links between PCOS and disordered eating are not yet well understood, and more research is needed. 

Addressing Eating Disorders in the Workplace

What are the warning signs of disordered eating in the workplace? While it’s impossible to tell if someone has an eating disorder just by looking at them, according to the National Eating Disorders Association, employers should watch out for:

• Preoccupation with food, weight, appearance, and dieting
• Difficulties concentrating
• Avoiding workplace events where food might be present
• Scheduling work events around exercise
• Evidence of binge eating, such as the disappearance of large amounts of food, or the presence of large numbers of candy wrappers and food containers
• Evidence of purging, including heading to the bathroom right after eating
• Excessive caffeine consumption
• Withdrawal from co-workers and normal activities
• Unusual increase or decrease in productivity levels

So how can employers support employers with PCOS and/or an eating disorder? Here are a few first steps:

• Offer Holistic Physical & Mental Healthcare

Offering holistic employee health benefits that cover both mental and physical issues is a great way for employers to support their employees who are dealing with PCOS and/or an eating disorder. This can include mental health support, gender-specific healthcare, and inclusive benefits. Healthcare companies like Peppy can give your people the expert guidance and support they need when it comes to PCOS.

• Watch Your Language

It’s incredibly common for employers to offer weight loss programs or incentives—but employers beware, this can be incredibly triggering for employees suffering with disordered eating. Instead, consider focusing on healthy eating and exercise practices rather than simply weight loss. Avoid any programs that call for competition and weigh-ins and ensure that all programs are completely voluntary. 

• Consider Educational & Awareness Programs

Educational programs can last all year long, but late February and early March are a great time for employers to launch an eating disorder awareness program in the workplace. In 2023, February 27-March 5 is Eating Disorder Awareness Week. Then, continue to make materials available to your employees through wellness programming and communications focused on health throughout the year.