Impact of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome on Health-Related Quality of Life: A Cross-Sectional Study Using the PCOSQOL Scale

Background: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is associated with metabolic and psychological morbidity, yet limited Indian data using disease-specific quality-of-life instruments exist. This study assessed health-related quality of life (QoL) using the PCOSQOL scale and identified sociodemographic and clinical predictors. Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 125 women aged 15-35 years with PCOS diagnosed by Rotterdam criteria at a tertiary care hospital in Hyderabad. QoL was measured using the 35-item PCOSQOL instrument. Sociodemographic and clinical variables were recorded. Pearson correlation, independent t-test, and multivariable linear regression were applied; results are presented as β coefficients with 95% confidence intervals (CI). Results: Mean age was 21.26±4.58 years and BMI 23.56±5.72 kg/m². Mood had the lowest QoL score (5.01±1.82). BMI negatively correlated with all domains (r=-0.27 to -0.32; p≤0.002). In adjusted models, BMI independently predicted poorer Impact (β=-0.10; 95%CI -0.15, -0.05; p<0.001), Infertility (β=-0.08; 95%CI -0.13, -0.04; p=0.001), Hirsutism (β=-0.11; 95%CI -0.17, -0.06; p<0.001), and Mood (β=-0.12; 95%CI -0.18, -0.06; p<0.001). Urban residence predicted poorer Mood (β=-1.23; 95%CI -1.90, -0.57; p<0.001). Conclusion: PCOS significantly impairs QoL, particularly psychological well-being. Higher BMI and urban residence are key determinants, underscoring the need for integrated lifestyle and psychological care.