Abstract
BACKGROUND: Sleep problems also occur in women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) of normal weight. Furthermore, PCOS and sleep disturbances are linked with worsening of cardiometabolic health in the long term. OBJECTIVE: The study aimed to determine the effect of strengthening exercises on sleep quality among females suffering from PCOS. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty-four female participants aged 20-45 years suffering from PCOS from at least 1 year with body mass index of 18.5-29.9 kg/m(2) and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) score ≥5 were randomized into experimental (n = 12) and control (n = 12) groups; allocation (1:1). The participants were blinded. Experimental group received strengthening exercises thrice per week for 4 weeks, and no intervention was given in control group. Sleep quality was assessed using PSQI. RESULTS: The Wilcoxon signed-rank test showed significant improvements (P < 0.05) in sleep quality, sleep latency, sleep efficiency, sleep disturbances, and global score with strengthening exercises. Mann-Whitney U-test revealed significant improvements (P < 0.05) in use of medication (P = 0.016) and global score (P = 0.045). CONCLUSION: Four weeks of strengthening exercises has significant benefits in improving the sleep quality among females with PCOS.