Mental Health and Body Image Concerns in Women with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome: A Profile of Anxiety, Depression, and Self-Esteem
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Abstract
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder affecting women of reproductive age, often linked with both physical symptoms, such as hirsutism and obesity, and significant mental health impacts. The aim of this study was to profile anxiety, depression, body shape preoccupation, and self-esteem among women with PCOS compared to healthy controls, thereby highlighting the psychological burden associated with this syndrome. A cross-sectional observational design was utilized, with participants recruited from Krishna Hospital, Karad, between June 2022 and November 2023. The study involved 126 women, 63 with PCOS and 63 healthy controls, who were assessed using standardized questionnaires: Hamilton’s Anxiety and Depression Scales, the Body Shape Questionnaire, and the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale. Findings revealed that women with PCOS exhibited significantly higher levels of anxiety (mean = 15.06, SD = 9.794) and depression (mean = 9.38, SD = 5.467) than controls, alongside lower self-esteem and greater body shape preoccupation. Correlation analysis indicated that body shape concerns were positively associated with weight, anxiety, and depression, and negatively correlated with self-esteem. Women with normal BMI but with PCOS still reported elevated anxiety and depression, suggesting intrinsic factors beyond weight. These results underscore the need for integrated mental health support in managing PCOS. Addressing psychological factors in PCOS care could improve both mental and physical health outcomes for affected women.