Psychological and Physiological Impact of PCOS on the Undergraduate Students of Delhi University

Abstract

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrine disorder among women of reproductive age in the developed world, affecting 5–10% of this population. Women with PCOS may complain about irregular menstrual periods and/or heavy menstrual bleeding, infertility, excessive growth of coarse facial and body hair, obesity, oiliness of the skin, seborrhoea, and cystic acne. As some symptoms cause changes that are visible to other people and interfere with the norms of femininity, this disorder often has a negative effect on individuals’ mental health and well-being. The impact of these symptoms on a woman’s quality of life may be profound and can result in psychological distress that threatens her feminine identity. The condition may therefore result in altered self-perception, a dysfunctional family dynamic, and problems at work. The cases of depression and anxiety among females with PCOS are much higher than ordinary women. Majority of studies till date focuses mostly on the physiological aspect of PCOS but the present survey-based study took into account both physiological and psychological impacts of PCOS on the undergraduate females of Delhi university, since this age group caters to immense stress and anxiety due to their academic and career deciding burden. The study found out that 23% of the respondents either have PCOS or have suffered in past from PCOS. The present study not only found the physiological and psychological impacts of PCOS but also, it’s diagnostic techniques and the most preferred from of treatment among respondents.