THE PREVALENCE OF STRESS AND ANXIETY IN PATIENTS WITH POLYCYSTIC OVARIAN SYNDROME: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY:

Abstract

PCOS ( polycystic ovarian Syndrome ) is the common disorder among female in reproductive age. It affects 13% women, worldwide, of reproductive age.[1] It is characterized by psychological and clinical abnormalities. Clinically characterized as hyperandrogenism, hirsutism, ovulatory and menstrual dysfunction, diabetes type 2 and cardiovascular risks. Prevalence exceeds the 10%–13% confirmed in the 2023 PCOS diagnosis standards [2]. The diagnostic standards that were applied could be the cause of the discrepancy. According to the best current data, PCOS should be diagnosed when at least two of the following occur: ovulatory failure, polycystic ovaries on ultrasound, clinical or biochemical hyperandrogenism, or elevated anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) [2].

Rural living, low levels of education, having a high body mass index (BMI), being single, and not having children are all factors linked to the psychological burden of PCOS [3,4,5].

Regretfully, people who are already dealing with chronic illnesses are more likely to experience psychiatric illness (6). Furthermore, PCOS women are more susceptible to mental health issues such stress, anxiety, and depression (7).Psychotic problems in female adults and adolescents with PCOS have been documented in a number of investigations. [8,9] Given that adolescence is the cause of more than half of mental illnesses in adults, [10]Hormonal changes, the bothersome symptoms of PCOS, or a combination of these things may be the cause of PCOS. Gaining more knowledge on the likelihood of mood problems in PCOS-afflicted women may lead to innovative treatment strategies. Because of this, the Androgen Excess-Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Society called for action in 2018 to prioritize research on mental health in relation to PCOS. [11] Among the PCOS patients prevalence of depression is 37% as compare to 14.2% healthy women and prevalence of anxiety is 42% as compare to 8.5% healthy women.[12] These women suffer from Social Phobias , stress and anxiety. They have issues to cope with their personal relations and feelings of social stigma caused by this disease.[13]

PCOS can raise concerns on fertility and femininity of female (body image) , this cause mental health problems in youngsters. This issue must be addressed and pointed out on large scale to prevent them from mental health problems. [15]In Pakistan the prevalence of PCOS in women is much higher i.e 52%.[14] It is because of the lack of awareness and education about the PCOS. Other factor involved is shyness, stigma of society, peer pressure etc.[16]