The Role of Demographic Factors, Clinical Characteristics and Perceived Social Support on the Body Image of Iranian Women With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Cross-Sectional Study Publisher



Moghaddam RA ; Hasanpoorazghady SB ; Fasanghari M
Source: Health Science Reports Published:2026

Abstract

Background and Aims: Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) face several physical and psychological challenges, including body image concerns. Factors such as social support, demographic characteristics, and clinical symptoms may influence body image satisfaction in these women. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the role of demographic factors, clinical characteristics, and perceived social support on the body image of Iranian women with PCOS. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 200 women with PCOS who attended hospitals affiliated with Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. Participants were selected through continuous sampling. Data were collected using a demographic questionnaire, the Modified Ferriman-Gallwey Scale (for hirsutism), the Ludwig Scale (for alopecia), the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS), and the Multidimensional Body-Self Relations Questionnaire-Appearance Scales (MBSRQ–AS). Results: The mean scores for the body image dimensions were: appearance evaluations 3.77 ± 0.68, appearance orientation 3.89 ± 0.45, body areas satisfaction 3.58 ± 0.75, overweight preoccupation 3.30 ± 0.80, and self-classified weight 3.59 ± 0.85. Appearance orientation had the highest mean, which indicates that participants pay attention to their appearance and engage in extensive grooming behaviors. A weak but statistically significant direct correlation was found between perceived social support and both appearance evaluation (p = 0.021, r = 0.16) and body areas satisfaction (p = 0.002, r = 0.22). Additionally, several body image dimensions were statistically associated with age, occupation, marital status, BMI, hirsutism, alopecia, and spouse's satisfaction with the woman's body and appearance. Conclusions: Among the five dimensions of body image, appearance orientation was most prominent for participants. Higher perceived social support was linked to more positive appearance evaluations and greater satisfaction with body areas. Since body image impacts mental health, improving social support alongside conventional treatments may help enhance body image in women with PCOS, especially when demographic and clinical factors are considered. © 2026 The Author(s). Health Science Reports published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.