Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is characterized by androgen excess, chronic oligoanovulation and polycystic ovaries on ultrasound. Its etiology remains largely unknown however several studies suggested that prenatal androgen exposure might contribute to development of PCOS. An association between androgen dysfunction and attention deficit hyperactivity sendrome (ADHD) is established. The aim of this study was to investigate the ADHD symptoms in women with PCOS.

Forty females who had a clinical diagnosis of PCOS based on Rotterdam diagnostic criteria were recruited for the study group. For comparison, regularly cycling healthy controls who agreed to participate in the study (n=40) were recruited in control groups. A physical examination was performed by the same physician on all women in Gynecology Department. All participants were then invited to complete the Wender Utah Rating Scale (WURS - 25) and the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS-v1.1).

There were no significant differences in age, education, and BMI between groups. Total WURS and ASRS scores were statistically higher in females with PCOS. Hyperactivity subscore of ASRS and Irritability, School Problems and Behavioral Problems/Impulsivity subscores of WURS were significantly higher in females with PCOS than controls.

Our results showed that ADHD symptoms are higher in women with PCOS than healthy controls. These findings suggest that prenatal exposure to high levels of androgen influences some ADHD symptoms and that hormonal factors may be involved in ADHD.