Endometriosis may significantly increase the risk of major depressive disorder (MDD) and vice versa in premenopausal women, according to a study in the Journal of Affective Disorders.Why It’s Relevant
Up to 10% of women worldwide have endometriosis, which leads to chronic pelvic pain, fertility problems, and significantly impaired quality of life. Previous research suggests that depression is more common among patients with endometriosis compared with the general population, but there has not yet been a comprehensive, longitudinal study that explores the relationship between the two conditions.
By the Numbers
- Researchers followed 244,725 women from the UK Biobank cohort who did not have MDD at baseline. The study also included a parallel analysis of 62,255 premenopausal women without baseline endometriosis.
- Women with endometriosis had a 39% increased risk of MDD compared with those without endometriosis. In the parallel analysis, women with MDD had a 30% increased risk of endometriosis compared with those without MDD.
- Metabolic biomarkers linked with triglyceride levels, insulin resistance, and liver function partially explained the bidirectional association between endometriosis and MDD.
The Other Side
The incident cases were identified through hospital inpatient records, primary care data, and death registries. However, women with endometriosis or MDD may use health care services more often, leading to an increased likelihood of receiving diagnoses for both conditions. In addition, the researchers used the biomarkers measured at baseline only, which may not capture variation over time.
Takeaway Message
“These findings underscore the importance of considering mental health in the management of endometriosis and vice versa,” the researchers wrote. “Future research is warranted to explore additional mediators and validate these findings in diverse populations.”
Related Information
Source
Lingling Huang, et al. Bidirectional prospective relationship of endometriosis with major depressive disorder: the mediating role of metabolic biomarkers. Journal of Affective Disorders. Published online March 16, 2026. doi: 10.1016/j.jad.2026.121642
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