Autistic traits in women with polycystic ovary syndrome

Several studies suggested that prenatal androgen exposure might contribute to development of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). The androgen theory of autism proposes that autism spectrum conditions (ASC) are in part due to elevated fetal testosterone levels. Furthermore, higher rates of androgen-related conditions including PCOS are reported in women with ASC. In this study, we aimed to measure the autistic traits in women with PCOS. Forty females who had a diagnosis of PCOS were recruited for the study group. For comparison, 40 healthy age – and Body Mass Index (BMI) – matched women who had regular menses were included. All participants completed the Autism-Spectrum Quotient (AQ). There were no significant differences in age, education, and BMI between groups. Total AQ and communication scores were statistically higher in females with PCOS. Although social skills, imagination, attention to detail and attention switching scores were higher in women with PCOS, these did not reach significance. This study showed that autistic traits were higher in women with PCOS than healthy controls which supports that prenatal exposure to high levels of androgen may be involved in development of ASC.

► Male preponderance suggests that autism spectrum disorders might be influenced by prenatal androgen levels.
► We investigated the autistic traits in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), an endocrine disorder associated with hyperandrogenism.
► Women with PCOS had higher autistic scores than controls.
► These results suggest that prenatal androgens may have a masculinizing effect on autistic symptoms in women with PCOS.