Exploring the Psychological Impact of PCOS/PCOD: Health Related Quality of Life, Body Image and Self-Concept

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome/Disease (PCOS/PCOD) is an endocrinal lifestyle disorder impacting the life of a lot of women across the world. It not only causes physical distress but also creates psychological, and social distress. The medical symptoms of PCOS/PCOD, including irregular menstruation, hormonal disorders, and infertility, are well-reported. But its impact on quality of life, body image and self-concept are not studied in detail. This research investigates the correlation between health-related quality of life (HRQoL), body image, and self-concept in women with PCOD/PCOS. The sample consisted of a total of 60 women diagnosed with PCOD/PCOS between the age of 18-35 years. The sample was taken from Sunder Lal Hospital, IMS, BHU, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. The experimental database included the PGI Health Questionnaire (PGI-HQ) as a tool to measure the severity of distress in women, Body Image Concern Inventory (BICI), and Self-Concept Rating Scale (SCRS). The results indicate that HRQoL and self-concept are significantly correlated, which indicates that PCOD/PCOS causes psychological as well as social distress in women. The Women complained of difficulty matching their self-image to the societal standards of beauty because of such symptoms as weight gain, hirsutism and acne that lead to increased body dissatisfaction and reduced self-esteem. The paper also highlights the contribution of physical and psychological distress to the development of body image issues and dimensions of self-concept including the perceived self, ideal self, and social self.