The relationship between stress perception and anxiety among patients with polycystic ovary syndrome: the mediating role of negative coping strategies

OBJECTIVE: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a highly prevalent disorder that not only induces physical alterations and discomfort, but also exerts an impact on mental health. This study aimed to examine the mediating effects of negative coping strategies on the relationship between perceived stress and anxiety. METHODS: In total, 219 women diagnosed with PCOS were recruited from the reproductive clinic of a grade 3 class A hospital in Harbin. A questionnaire-based survey was conducted using the Self-Rating Anxiety Scale, Perceived Stress Scale, and Simplified Coping Strategies Questionnaire. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson’s correlation analysis, and mediation effect analysis. RESULTS: The results revealed that 35% of the participants experienced anxiety, including 8% with moderate anxiety and 3% with severe anxiety. A significant positive correlation was observed between perceived stress and anxiety. Moreover, negative coping strategies were found to significantly mediate the relationship between perceived stress and anxiety (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: These results indicated that anxiety was a common psychological issue among PCOS patients. The numerous pressures associated with disease and daily life activities were important related factors that were linked to anxiety. Meanwhile, higher levels of perceived stress were associated with increased use of negative coping strategies, which in turn were correlated with elevated anxiety levels. Therefore, interventions aimed at improving coping strategies may help reduce stress and alleviate anxiety in women with PCOS.