Psychological Correlates of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Conceptual Review of Body Image, Self-concept Coping Style, and Quality of Life

Description

Page: 429-433

Divya Singh and Tejinder Kaur (Department of Psychology, University of Rajasthan, Jaipur, Rajasthan)

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a widespread and complex endocrine disorder that affects many women during their reproductive years. Although a large body of existing research has focused on the physical and metabolic consequences linked to PCOS, its psychological dimensions have not been explored with the same depth. This review aims to bring together available evidence on four important psychological areas i.e. body image, self-concept, coping style, and quality of life, relevant to women with PCOS. To ensure a thorough understanding of the topic various databases like PubMed, Scopus, PsycINFO and Google Scholar were comprehensively explored for peer reviewed studies, theoretical papers, and review articles published between 2000 and 2025. Existing research highlights that women with PCOS frequently encounter a range of complex interrelated psychological difficulties. These difficulties include body image dissatisfaction, challenges in interpersonal relationships, a diminished sense of self, reliance on less effective coping strategies, and a compromised quality of life. These variables often interact and reinforce one another, adding to the overall emotional and psychological burden experienced by women with PCOS. In light of these complexities, there is a pressing need for both research and clinical practice to adopt approaches that are holistic and sensitive to individual variations. This review proposes a conceptual framework aimed at better understanding how these psychological variables are interconnected. By delineating these relationships, the suggested framework offers a foundation for future research and guides the design of the psychological interventions aimed at enhancing the psychological well-being and quality of life of women affected by PCOS.