The Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Quality of Life scale (PCOSQOL): Development and preliminary validation

Polycystic ovary syndrome is an endocrine disorder amongst women, which can negatively impact quality of life. Research proposes that a more sensitive PCOS quality of life measure is needed. This study aims to develop and initially validate a quality of life scale for women with the condition in the United Kingdom. Women with PCOS (n =714) took part in the development and initial validation of the 35-item polycystic ovary syndrome quality of life scale (PCOSQOL)(alpha=.95). Subscales include Impact of PCOS (alpha = .95), Infertility (alpha=.95), Hirsutism (alpha=.97) and Mood (alpha = .89). The PCOSQOL scale represents aspects of quality of life important to women with PCOS and may be more sensitive for use in the clinical and research settings.