PhD defence H. (Hester) Pastoor

Below is a brief summary of the dissertation:

Women with PCOS more often experience problems with their sex lives than women without PCOS. They are often less satisfied with sex, feel less sexually aroused, and experience more worries or distress related to sexuality. Many women report that symptoms such as unwanted body hair and a negative body image play an important role in these difficulties.
This study found that about half of the women with PCOS experienced sexual problems or significant sexual distress. These issues were much more common than in women without PCOS.
Interestingly, no differences were found in the genital sexual response of the body between women with and without PCOS. This suggests that the problems are not primarily caused by physical factors. In addition, no relationship was found between hormone levels and sexual difficulties. However, women with PCOS were more likely to experience low mood, lower sexual self-confidence, and other psychological problems.
These findings are important because women with PCOS consider a satisfying sex life to be just as important as women without PCOS. Therefore, healthcare professionals should discuss sexuality more often. Clear information about the effects of self-esteem and  mood on sexuality may be helpful. When needed, support from a psychologist or sex therapist can help women cope with difficulties related to sexuality, self-confidence, and emotional well-being.