Body image, personality profiles and alexithymia in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). (2nd October 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Scaruffi, Elisabetta; Franzoi, Isabella Giulia; Civilotti, Cristina; Guglielmucci, Fanny; La Marca, Luana; Tomelini, Michela; Veglia, Fabio; Granieri, Antonella
• Is Part Of: Journal of psychosomatic obstetrics & gynaecology. Volume 40:Number 4(2019)
• Page Start: 294
• Page End: 303
• Publication Date: 2019-10-02
• Subjects: Polycystic ovary syndrome -- personality -- alexithymia -- body image -- MMPI-2; Gynecology -- Periodicals; Medicine, Psychosomatic -- Periodicals; Obstetrics -- Periodicals; 616.08
• DOI: 10.1080/0167482X.2018.1530210
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0167-482X

Abstract

Abstract: Aim: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine-metabolic disorder. It affects women's physical well-being and leads to great psychological distress. Indeed, women with PCOS show a compromised quality of life as well as impaired emotional well-being. The aim of this study is to assess personality characteristics, body image and alexithymia in women with PCOS. Materials and methods: A total of 59 women with PCOS and 38 healthy controls were administered the Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS), the Body Uneasiness Test (BUT) and the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory-2 (MMPI-2). Results: The PCOS group showed higher values of alexithymia and a higher body uneasiness. They also showed higher values on many clinical, content and supplementary scales of the MMPI-2. Discussion: It seems that physical appearance and bodily function have a central place in the minds of women with PCOS, as well as in their relationships. However, it is a body they find it hard to feel and with which they mostly feel uncomfortable. Their approach to the outside world seems to be characterized by a certain degree of immaturity, anger, hostility and distrust. Low self-esteem also seems to be connected to a certain tendency toward introversion and withdrawal. This leads to problems in social, professional and intimate relationships.