Navigating the Complex Dynamics of Sexual Functioning: Exploring the Role of Body Mass Index and Age in Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

Abstract

Women diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) often grapple with the societal pressures surrounding body image and femininity. This study delves into the nuanced relationship between sexual functioning, body mass index (BMI) and age in women diagnosed with PCOS, aiming to shed light on the multifaceted dynamics at play. A sample of 50 women with PCOS, aged between 20 and 45 years, was drawn from a gynaecology clinic in Rajasthan, India. Inclusion criteria were based on a PCOS diagnosis following the Rotterdam criteria, along with the capacity to provide informed consent. Sexual functioning was assessed using the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), while BMI was calculated from participant’s height and weight measurements, along with their age. The data underwent rigorous analysis, including independent t-tests, Pearson correlation analyses, and multiple regression analyses, to extract meaningful insights. The findings revealed intriguing patterns. Specifically, BMI exhibited a significant but weak negative correlation with desire and arousal (r = -.041 and r = -.048, respectively), with both correlations statistically significant at p < .05. Some variables demonstrated statistically significant correlations at p < .01, while others did not achieve statistical significance. However, the overall multiple regression model, encompassing BMI and age as predictors for sexual functioning, indicated some statistical significance concerning the total FSFI score. This comprehensive exploration underscores the complex interplay of sexual functioning, BMI, and Age among women with PCOS. While Age emerged as a significant factor, BMI’s influence was less pronounced, particularly in terms of satisfaction. These findings offer valuable insights into the holistic well-being of individuals with PCOS, emphasizing the importance of considering multiple factors in understanding sexual functioning in this population.