Drug, Healthcare and Patient Safety (Feb 2009)
Polycystic ovary syndrome and its impact on women’s quality of life: More than just an endocrine disorder
Abstract
Christine Brady, Shaymaa S Mousa, Shaker A MousaThe Pharmaceutical Research Institute, Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Albany, NY, USAAbstract: In the past, polycystic ovary syndrome has been looked at primarily as an endocrine disorder. Studies now show that polycystic ovary syndrome is a metabolic, hormonal, and psychosocial disorder that impacts a patient’s quality of life. It is extremely important to holistically treat these patients early on to help them deal with the emotional stress that is often overlooked with polycystic ovary syndrome. Early diagnosis and long term management can help control polycystic ovary syndrome so that women can still live a healthy active life and avoid long-term complications such as metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular diseases.Keywords: polycystic ovary syndrome, quality of life, sexual satisfaction, infertility, psychological distress, hirsutism, metabolic syndrome