The Impact of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) on Mental Health and Quality of Life (QoL) in Sri Lankan Women

Abstract

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder that affects many aspects of a woman's life including reproductive, metabolic, psychological, and social function. This study examined the relationship between PCOS symptom severity and depression, anxiety, and stress, and overall quality of life (QoL) among Sri Lankan women with PCOS. A quantitative cross-sectional survey design was employed, and online data were gathered using a questionnaire from 100 participants, of which 48 met all inclusion criteria and were analysed in the final study. Purposive and snowball sampling recruited 18 to 45-year-old participants with a clinical diagnosis of PCOS. Measures included a demographic questionnaire, PCOS symptom checklist, Depression Anxiety Stress Scales-21 (DASS-21), and the World Health Organization Quality of Life-BREF (WHOQOL-BREF). Data were gathered between February and April 2025, with all data being gathered via Google Forms. Ethical approval was obtained from the University of West London School of Human and Social Sciences Ethics Panel. Data was processed utilizing IBM SPSS Statistics Version 30.0 and employing correlation and regression analysis to study relationships among the study’s variables. Results indicated a positive significant correlation between PCOS symptom severity and depression, anxiety, and stress levels, and a negative significant correlation with quality of life in all four domains (i.e., physical, psychological, social, and environmental). The results reveal the significant impact of PCOS on not only physical health but also on mental wellbeing and life satisfaction. The results highlight the importance of incorporating psychological assessment and mental health care into the clinical care of PCOS. Future research is recommended to design culturally appropriate interventions to improve the mental wellbeing and quality of life of Sri Lankan women with PCOS.