Effects of Probiotic Supplementation on Mental Health and the Risk of Depression in Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials

This systematic review analyzed five randomized controlled trials to evaluate the effects of probiotic supplementation on mental health and sleep quality in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). The studies, conducted in Asia with sample sizes ranging from 28 to 49 participants, showed that probiotics may improve depressive symptoms and some aspects of quality of life, as indicated by improvements in Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21) and Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) scores. However, the effects on anxiety, stress, and sleep disorders were inconclusive, and the differences in sleep quality were not statistically significant compared to placebo groups. The review emphasizes the need for further research with larger sample sizes and standardized methodologies to confirm these findings and better understand the potential therapeutic role of probiotics in this population.