The impact of PCOS on self-image, self-esteem

AN ESTIMATED 12% of women worldwide live with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) - a hormonal disorder affecting women in their reproductive years yet it remains an under-researched condition that is not discussed openly. In celebration of Women’s Day on August 9, we want to shine a light on this important issue.

- LAURA HARTMAN & RIZWANA ROOMANEY

Women with PCOS may experience absent or irregular menstrual cycles, excess male hormones such as testosterone that can result in acne, excessive body and facial hair, hair thinning, and the appearance of cysts on ovaries. Patients with PCOS may also be diagnosed with associated medical conditions, such as insulin resistance, infertility, heart disease and diabetes.

Considering these related health problems and symptoms, it is not surprising that PCOS can negatively impact a woman's physical well-being, ability to be productive and social interactions. Some women with PCOS have reported withdrawing from social life. Additionally, many of the symptoms especially those relating to the hormonal profile of patients with PCOS - leave women feeling less feminine and negatively impacts their self-esteem and self-image.

In a recent study, we explored the impact of PCOS on the self-image and self-esteem of women in the Western Cape. At the time, there had been no in-depth interview-based studies on how PCOS affects self-image and self-esteem specifically among South African women living with the condition. We used interviews and body mapping as our research methods.

Body mapping is a novel, arts-based technique that allows us to explore patients’ personal bodily experiences - usually in relation to a health condition. It involves the creation of a to-scale outline of the person’s body that the participant then fills with figurative representations of their experiences.