Body shape concerns, sexual satisfaction, and associated factors among patients with polycystic ovarian syndrome

Objectives: To determine body shape concerns (BSCs), sexual satisfaction, and associated factors in patients with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS).

Methods: Using a structured and validated questionnaire, a cross-sectional survey was carried out at the Maternity and Children’s Hospital in Makkah, Saudi Arabia. Data were collected between August 2023 and June 2024. We included adult patients with PCOS who had completed at least one follow-up visit. We used multivariate analysis to determine the factors associated with BSC and sexual function. Spearman’s correlation analysis was executed to assess the correlation concerning these 2 aspects.

Results: Of the 432 patients studied, nearly half (50.9%) had some degree of BSC and sexual dysfunction (50.5%). Body shape concern exhibited a significant association with age (p=0.001), education (p=0.017), occupation (p=0.005), and follow-up status (p=0.005). Sexual function and satisfaction were significantly associated with education (p=0.001), body mass index (p=0.001), and the existence of other comorbidities (p=0.011). Additionally, the study revealed a negative relationship between sexual function assessment and BSC (Spearman’s rho= -0.567; p=0.001).

Conclusion: This study encourages healthcare providers to proactively query sexual apprehension among these patients. These findings may guide health caregivers, policymakers, and scholars in developing measures to improve the quality of life of women with PCOS.