Health-related knowledge, beliefs and self-efficacy in women with polycystic ovary syndrome

AbstractSTUDY QUESTIONDo health-related knowledge, beliefs and self-efficacy differ between women with and without polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)?SUMMARY ANSWERWomen with PCOS felt at greater risk for adverse health outcomes, yet believed a healthy lifestyle was less beneficial to prevent weight gain relative to a comparison group.WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADYDiet and physical activity are often used to treat PCOS, but there are high attrition rates and less engagement in self-help methods. It is unclear whether there are unique psychosocial considerations in PCOS that should be incorporated into these interventions.STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATIONThis cross-sectional study enrolled 475 women with (N = 255) and without PCOS (N = 220).PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODSFemale participants were recruited through paper and web-based advertisements across the US (mean age: 28.1 ± 5.4 years). Participants were either diagnosed with PCOS by a healthcare professional (PCOS group) or had self-reported regular menstrual cycles (comparison group). A reliable and valid online instrument about health-related knowledge, beliefs and self-efficacy was administered to these participa nts.MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCEMost women with PCOS had a basic understanding of nutrition (96%), but had misconceptions about diagnostic criteria for PCOS ( ≥86%). PCOS was associated with greater perceived susceptibility for disease and weight gain and poorer perceived control over these health outcomes ...
Source: Human Reproduction - Category: Reproduction Medicine Source Type: research