Abstract
BACKGROUND: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a significant hormonal disorder that primarily affects young women, has a substantial impact on both their health-related quality of life and their mental well-being. OBJECTIVE: To assess the prevalence and patterns of body dysmorphia in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) patients in Kingdom of Bahrain and to reach a consensus regarding the relationship between body dysmorphia and PCOS. METHODS: There were 132 participants involved in the study: 66 were control cases, 66 were PCOS cases. Each was given a survey form. The scoring was based on the Głębocka's self-perception scale and modified Ferriman-Gallwey hirsutism scale were used to assess about own perception to appearance, and pressure to change body shape. RESULTS: Most of the PCOS patients in the Kingdom of Bahrain who are above 30 years old experienced body dysmorphia along with other physical changes in appearance and psychological disorders such as social anxiety and depression. About 86% of them have hirsutism which significantly affects their self-esteem and self-confidence within themselves. However, the average hair distribution volume ranges only from 1.82 to 2.53 in the different parts of the body. CONCLUSION: Body dysmorphia is prevalent in patients diagnosed with PCOS. It is important to understand that these manifestations of PCOS in women significantly impact their quality of life..