Silent Battles of Indian Women: Womanhood,Fertility,and the Weight of PCOS

Abstract

Introduction

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a multifaceted, complex endocrine condition affecting many women worldwide, with increased prevalence in South Asian nations, including India. Though biomedical consequences such as irregular menses, infertility, and insulin resistance are well established, the psychological and social aspects of PCOS are not well understood, especially where femininity is equated with reproduction and physical beauty.

Method

This qualitative research examines the PCOS lived experience of eight Indian women. A narrative method was employed, with semistructured interviews used to capture participants’ individual experiences from diagnosis through treatment and psychosocial adjustment.

Results

Five Global themes, 15 organizing themes, and 36 subthemes were identified through thematic analysis. The global themes identified are as follows: (1) PCOS Awareness and Diagnosis–Delays and misinformation during diagnosis. (2) Living with PCOS–Daily struggles with physical and emotional symptoms. (3) Coping and Seeking Support–Reliance on family, friends, and online communities. (4) The Healthcare Experience–Mixed interactions with medical professionals and systemic gaps. (5) Cultural Expectations and Identity–The impact of gender norms on self-image and social roles.

Conclusion

These results highlight the pressing need for culturally responsive, multidisciplinary models of PCOS treatment that tackle the physical manifestations, psychosocial and sociocultural weights experienced by women. The research adds to an expanding literature on chronic disease and gendered health in the Global South, calling for a more holistic view of women's health.