Health-Related Quality of Life Among Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome in Bangladesh

Abstract

Background: Polycystic ovary syndrome is one of the most common endocrine disorders in women worldwide, it can significantly affect their physical and psychological health. Objectives: The study aimed to assess the quality of life among women with Polycystic ovary syndrome in Bangladesh. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University and Dhaka Medical College Hospital in Dhaka, Bangladesh. A total of 112 women with Polycystic ovary syndrome were selected by a convenience sampling technique and data were collected by the researcher through face-to-face interviews, using a  structured questionnaire with the protection of human rights. The instrument composed of 3 parts: Part I - socio-demographic and disease-related characteristics questionnaire (14 items), Part II - menstruation and obstetrics characteristics questionnaire (10 items), and Part III - health-related quality of life questionnaire for women with Polycystic ovary syndrome (26 items). Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Result: The results showed that the mean age of the participants was 26.87 years old (SD=4.98), ranging from 17 to 39 years old. The mean quality of life was 2.62 (SD=0.572), out of 5, indicating a moderate quality of life. The results also found that marital status (t= 2.511, p=.013), education (F=2.945, p=.036), BMI (F=4.464, p=.014), hirsutism (t=3.07, p=.003), menstrual regularity (t=3.459, p=.001), interval of menstruation (F=5.778, p=.001), history of abortion (t=2.094, p=.039), and infertility problem (t=2.740, p=.007) were significantly associated with quality of life. Conclusion: The study concluded that Polycystic Ovary Syndrome has a negative impact on women’s quality of life. The findings would be helpful for nurses, nurse educators, and policymakers to empower and create awareness among women, with periodic screening for early detection and management of Polycystic ovary syndrome, thus improving the quality of life of women.