The relationship between xerostomia and oral health-related quality of life in females with polycystic ovary syndrome

BACKGROUND: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a disorder commonly seen in females of reproductive age. Significant associations have been reported between oral inflammation, periodontal diseases, and PCOS. An increase in inflammatory markers may be a factor for quality of life in patients with PCOS. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between xerostomia and oral health-related quality of life in females with PCOS. METHODS: In face-to-face interviews, patients diagnosed with PCOS and a healthy control group completed a questionnaire including demographic data, the Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP-14) and the Xerostomia Inventory. The data obtained were analyzed statistically in the IBM SPSS vn. 27 program. RESULTS: The OHIP-14 total points and the xerostomia points were determined to be statistically significantly higher in the PCOS group than in the control group (p < 0.05). A positive, moderate-level correlation was seen between the OHIP-14 total points and the xerostomia points (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: The study results showed that xerostomia was associated with PCOS and the oral health-related quality of life was affected in these patients. In females diagnosed with PCOS, keeping oral health under control can improve quality of life. It highlights the importance of integrating routine oral health assessments into the standard clinical management of women with PCOS. Healthcare professionals should adopt a multidisciplinary approach to identify and manage oral health problems that could adversely affect patients' quality of life.