Objectives

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder that affects women of reproductive age. It is characterized by the presence of multiple small cysts on the ovaries, irregular menstrual periods, and high levels of male hormones (androgens) in the body affecting 5-15% of women in the reproductive age group.

Methods

A single-blinded randomized controlled trial was conducted enrolling 34 PCOs patients with age range between 18-30 years that were randomly divided into progressive muscle relaxation (group-A) and acupuncture (group-B) using envelop method of simple random sampling technique. the study was performed at Asma Clinic and Maternity. The treatment was performed for a duration of 8 weeks, 3 non-consecutive sessions per week, each lasting for a duration of 30 minutes. The outcome of depression was assessed after 8 week of intervention using Montgomery and Asberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS).

Results

A total of 42 PCOS patients were screened in from January to November 2022, out of which 8 patients did not meet the inclusion criteria. The mean age of participants was 24.9±3.4 and 25.1±3.6 in group A and B respectively. The results of our study indicated that the PMR and Acupuncture techniques are indeed efficacious in improving the severity of depression and anxiety accompanying women suffering from PCOs with mean difference of 19.2 + 6.7 (p<0.05) and 24.5 + 7.0 in both groups respectively.

Conclusion

Based on the findings of this study, it can be suggested that alternative treatments such as progressive muscle relaxation (PMR) and acupuncture may be effective in managing depression and anxiety in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). These therapies may be used alongside conventional treatments to promote both physical and mental well-being in these patients.

Keywords:

Depression; polycystic ovary syndrome; physical therapy; stress; relaxation exercise.