Abstract:
Background: Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a
prevalent and complex endocrine disorder that affects
women of reproductive age. Its physical manifestations as
the change in body image, fertility challenges, menstrual
irregularities, and associated chronic health conditions
increase their vulnerability to psychological trauma. Negative effects on psychological health significantly impact
their quality of life.
Objectives: The current study aimed to compare the
effects of high-intensity resistance versus aerobic training
on psychological health and quality of life in women with
PCOS.
Study Design: This was a single-blinded, randomized controlled trial.
Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted
from November 22 to April 23 at Riphah Rehabilitation
Center, Islamabad, Pakistan. The female university students (n = 60), with an age range of 18 to 30 years, who
were not part of any planned physical activity program,
were not taking any medication, and were willing to par ticipate in the exercise trial, were recruited. They were
randomly allocated into 2 groups: high-intensity resistance
(HIRG) and high-intensity aerobic (HIAG) groups. Both
groups underwent exercise interventions for a duration of
12 weeks. Clinical and psychological health and quality of
life were assessed using validated measures, including the
polycystic ovary syndrome questionnaire (PCOS-Q) and
the 36-item Short Form Survey (SF-36). Assessments were
conducted at baseline, 6th, and 12th weeks. Data analysis
was done using SPSS-21.
Results: The mean age of women in the HIRG (n = 30)
versus the HIAG (n = 30) was 22.40 ± 2.4 years versus
20.63 ± 2.1 years. Between-group analysis revealed no
significant difference (P > .05) between the groups in
terms of postintervention total scores of the PCOS-Q and
SF-36 quality of life. However, within-group analysis has
shown statistically significant improvement (P < .01) in
both outcome measures.
Conclusion: It is concluded that both high-intensity modes
of exercise, resistance, and aerobic training were found
to be equally effective interventions for improving psychological health and quality of life in women with PCOS.
Individualizing exercise programs to meet individual needs
and preferences may aid in maximizing the psychological
benefits of each exercise modality. Further investigation
into the underlying processes and long-term impact of
these therapies in this vulnerable population is required.
