Stolen Femininity of Women with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome: A Review

Polycystic ovary syndrome is a common endocrine disorder among women of reproductive age worldwide and is increasingly recognized in Oman. Hormonal imbalances, particularly elevated androgen levels, underline many of its manifestations, leading to excessive male-pattern hair growth, acne, and oily skin. These visible manifestations can significantly affect self-esteem and body image. Furthermore, these hormonal imbalances disrupt the menstrual cycle, causing irregular or absent periods, and making natural conception difficult. As such, polycystic ovary syndrome deeply influences a woman's perceptions of her femininity and societal norms surrounding womanhood. This can be particularly distressing to women in Middle Eastern societies including Oman, where motherhood is highly valued. Recognizing this broad range of issues is important for developing culturally appropriate interventions to address both the physical and psychological consequences of this condition, thereby improving the quality of life of affected women.