Mood and Sexual Function in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
January 2008
in “
Seminars in reproductive medicine
”
TLDR Women with PCOS often feel stigmatized and have mood issues, which can lower their sexual satisfaction, but proper treatment and support can help.
The document discusses the psychological impact of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) on women, highlighting that the condition often leads to feelings of stigmatization and a loss of feminine identity due to failure to meet societal beauty standards. Women with PCOS experience mood disturbances, depression, and reduced emotional well-being, quality of life, and life satisfaction. These issues also negatively affect their sexual self-worth and satisfaction. Obesity and hirsutism are significant factors affecting the physical quality of life, but the psychological effects are inherent to PCOS. The document suggests that diagnosis confirmation, detailed information, interdisciplinary treatment for symptoms like hirsutism, obesity, menstrual irregularity, and infertility, as well as new treatment options such as insulin sensitizers, psychological counseling, and support groups, can alleviate psychological distress and enhance sexual self-worth and overall life satisfaction in women with PCOS.
