The Invisible Burden: A Qualitative Exploration of PCOS/PCOD's Psychosocial and Educational Consequences in Indian College Students

Background - Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and Polycystic Ovarian Disease (PCOD) are highly prevalent endocrine disorders among Indian women, with rising cases linked to genetic, lifestyle, and environmental factors. While biomedical aspects like infertility and metabolic risks are well-documented, the psychosocial and educational toll particularly on college students remains understudied. This qualitative study explores the invisible burden of PCOS/PCOD in young Indian women, examining how stigma, mental health struggles, and symptom management intersect with academic performance and daily life. By amplifying firsthand narratives, the research highlights unmet needs in healthcare and institutional support, aiming to bridge gaps between clinical diagnosis and holistic well-being.Method- Qualitative research design was employed, using purposive sampling to select female undergraduate students who self-reported a diagnosis of PCOD (Polycystic Ovarian Disease) or PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome). Participants were interviewed, but no medical cross- validation (e.g., clinical records or hormonal tests) was conducted to verify their conditions. This narrative research study explores the lived experiences of 20 undergraduate girls in Lucknow, India, who are battling PCOS/PCOD. Through personal interviews, the study uncovers how societal silence, parental anxieties, and financial constraints shape their mental well-being and academic choices.Results- Findings reveal that many girls face stigma, forced early marriage pressures, and self- esteem issues due to visible symptoms like facial hair and acne. Parents, fearing infertility- linked marital rejections, often discourage open discussions or higher education away from home. However, those with supportive families and coping mechanisms like yoga and meditation manage better.Conclusion- The study highlights the urgent need for awareness, parental education, and institutional support to break the cycle of silence and empower these young women.