The effect of an emotional support training program on weight self-stigma and body image among women with polycystic ovary syndrome

Purpose This study aims to investigate the impact of an emotional support training program on weight self-stigma and body image among women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Design/methodology/approach A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 200 women diagnosed with PCOS employing a pretest-posttest design. The experimental group, consisting of 100 women, participated in an emotional support training program and received an informational booklet, while the control group (100 women) received only the booklet. Pre- and post-intervention assessments were conducted using weight self-esteem and body shape questionnaires. Findings The results demonstrated a statistically significant difference in weight self-stigma and body shape scores between the experimental and control groups following the intervention. For both the immediate post-intervention test [ t (198) = 31.1, p = 0.01] [ t (198) = 31.1, p = 0.01] [ t (198) = 31.1, p = 0.01] and [ t (198) = 60.7, p = 0.01] [ t (198) = 60.7, p = 0.01] [ t (198) = 60.7, p =0.01], as well as the delayed post-intervention test [ t (198) = 32.3, p = 0.01] [ t (198) = 32.3, p = 0.01] [ t (198) = 32.3, p = 0.01] and [ t (198) = 70.9, p = 0.01] [ t (198) = 70.9, p = 0.01] [ t (198) = 70.9, p = 0.01], the experimental group exhibited lower mean scores. Specifically, the experimental group scored 20.3 ± 9.2 for immediate and 20.4 ± 9.3 for delayed assessments on weight self-stigma, and 101.2 ± 7.2 for immediate and 86.5 ± 7.6 for delayed assessments on body shape. In contrast, the control group scored 159.8 ± 6.3 for immediate and 157.6 ± 6.4 for delayed assessments, respectively. Practical implications Nurses should be aware of the adverse effects of PCOS and associated obesity on weight self-stigma and body image. They are encouraged to develop targeted emotional support training programs specifically designed to address weight self-stigma and body image concerns in women with PCOS. Originality/value This study confirms the effectiveness of an emotional support training program in mitigating the negative effects of weight-related stigma and improving body image perception.