Sociocultural Factors Influencing the Diagnosis, Management, and Psychological Outcomes of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Narrative Review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.18502/jsbch.v10i1.22998Keywords:
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, Culture, Social Factors, Mental Health, Social Stigma.Abstract
Background: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder affecting reproductive, metabolic, and psychological health. Increasing evidence suggests that sociocultural factors substantially shape women’s experiences of PCOS, influencing diagnosis, management, and psychological wellbeing. This narrative review aimed to synthesize current evidence on the Sociocultural Factors Influencing the Diagnosis, Management, and Psychological Outcomes of PCOS.
Methods: This narrative review was conducted using a structured literature search informed by selected PRISMA 2020 principles. PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, SID, and Google Scholar were searched up to October 16, 2025. Eligible English and Persian studies examining sociocultural factors influencing the diagnosis, management, or psychological outcomes of PCOS were also included. Data were synthesized using an inductive thematic approach.
Results: Seven studies were included. The findings revealed three interconnected themes: (1) biographical disruption and conflict with cultural ideals of femininity, in which symptoms such as infertility, hirsutism, and weight gain contributed to shame and social devaluation; (2) systemic and socioeconomic barriers to diagnosis and care, including delayed diagnosis, fragmented healthcare access, and limited health literacy; and (3) internalized stigma and psychological sequelae, including depression, anxiety, body image dissatisfaction, and social isolation. In general, sociocultural pressures and structural inequalities interacted dynamically to shape women’s experiences across different cultural settings.
Conclusion: PCOS should be understood not only as a biomedical condition but also as a sociocultural and psychological experience shaped by gender norms, stigma, and socioeconomic inequalities. Culturally sensitive and multidisciplinary care approaches are essential to improve diagnosis, psychological wellbeing, and quality of life among women with PCOS.
