Objectification and ambiguity of body image in women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A mixed-method study

Abstract

Background: The manifestations of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), including acne, hirsutism, obesity, uncertain fertility, etc., can make women anxious, worried, or even depressed with their appearance and body. However, little relevant research has been conducted in the Chinese context. This mixed-method study aimed to understand how women with PCOS in China perceive their bodies and to examine the association between body image and depression.

Methods: First, 101 PCOS patients participated in a survey using the Body Surveillance subscale of the Objectified Body Consciousness Scale, the Short-form Mishel Uncertainty in Illness Scale, the Appearance Anxiety Scale, and the Beck Depression Inventory-II, which measured participants' self-objectification, illness ambiguity, appearance anxiety, and depression, respectively. Second, fifteen women joined face-to-face semi-structured in-depth interviews, investigating their illness ambiguity, objectified experience, and behaviors to pursue beauty.

Results: Results indicated a high level of self-objectification, illness ambiguity, appearance anxiety, and depression among women with PCOS in China and supported the significant associations among the outcomes. Qualitative findings presented a body image of the precarious body, indiscernible identity, and distraught mind.

Limitations: A convenient sampling method was used. The generalization of the study results needs further validation. Future longitudinal studies are necessary to clarify the causal relationships among outcomes.

Conclusions: This study presented women's body image with PCOS and found the negative impact of body image on their depression levels. This study was of both theoretical and practical significance. Appropriate mind-body therapies were suggested for them.

Keywords: Ambiguity; Appearance anxiety; Body image; Depression; Objectification; Polycystic ovary syndrome.