The effect of cognitive behavioral therapy on depression and anxiety of women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a randomized controlled trial

Women's mental health has a significant impact on the health of society. Due to the prevalence of mental health problems in women with PCOS, this study aimed to determine the effect of cognitive behavioral therapy on depression and anxiety (primary outcomes) and quality of life (secondary outcomes) in women with polycystic ovary syndrome. This randomized controlled trial was performed on 84 patients with PCOS referred to Al-Zahra Hospital in Tabriz-Iran, 2021. Participants were randomly assigned to intervention (n = 42) and control (n = 42) groups. Counseling with cognitive behavioral therapy was provided in 8 sessions of 60-90 min weekly in groups with 5 to 7 people in each group for the intervention group. Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety, Beck Depression, and Quality of Life Questionnaire for women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOSQ) were used to collect data. Independent t-test and ANCOVA were used to compare the outcomes between the two groups. After the intervention, based on ANCOVA test with adjusting the baseline values, mean scores of depression (mean difference (MD): -18.6; 95% confidence interval (95% CI): -19.4 to -17.8: P