News | Study Finds Doctors' Wording May Increase Anxiety in Patients with PCOS
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common gynecological endocrine disorder that affects ovarian function and may cause irregular periods, weight gain, and other physical and metabolic problems. Research suggests that the language doctors use when diagnosing PCOS may have lasting effects on patients' mental health.
University of Surrey researchers found that terms such as "raised" may increase body dissatisfaction and dieting, while "irregular" may trigger fertility anxiety. Although simple, these ambiguous words can prompt negative associations and affect long-term mental health and understanding of the condition.
The Power of Language: How Diagnostic Terms Affect Patients with PCOS
Professor of Health Psychology Jane Ogden said: "Diagnostic consultations often last only a few minutes, but the doctor's words during that time can shape how patients understand their condition and ultimately affect their physical and mental health."
The study surveyed 147 women with PCOS about satisfaction with diagnostic consultations, clinicians' language, and overall psychological well-being. It found:
Patients dissatisfied with diagnosis reported lower body-esteem, poorer quality of life, and more concern about future health.
More than a quarter were dissatisfied with how doctors addressed emotional distress and felt communication was poor.
"Raised" could cause concern about weight or hormone levels, while "irregular periods" could prompt assumptions about infertility and increase anxiety.
Patients often replay diagnostic conversations to understand their condition. Ambiguous wording may cause misunderstanding, excessive worry, and lasting psychological harm.
How Can Doctors Improve the Diagnostic Experience?
Clinicians should choose words carefully, avoid vague or anxiety-provoking language, and communicate more clearly and supportively.
Researchers proposed:
1. Avoid anxiety-provoking terms
For example, replace "raised hormone levels" with "your hormone levels fluctuate slightly, which is common in PCOS, and diet and lifestyle changes may help."
Replace "irregular periods" with "your cycles may be longer or variable, and there are measures that may help regulate them."
2. Give specific information rather than general statements
When hormone levels are high, explain the values, possible effects, and management options rather than saying only "raised."
3. Address emotions and provide psychological support
Because anxiety and depression are common after diagnosis, clinicians should ask how patients feel and offer support or referral when needed.
4. Build a strong clinician-patient relationship
Patients with a good relationship with their doctor often adapt better psychologically and report higher quality of life. Clinicians should listen to concerns and offer encouragement and support.
Conclusion: Language Shapes Health Perceptions
This was the first systematic study of how language used in PCOS diagnosis affects mental health. Researchers urged healthcare professionals to recognize these effects so patients receive both clear information and adequate support.
The study was published in the British Journal of General Practice.
News | Study Finds Doctors' Wording May Increase Anxiety in Patients with PCOS
News | Study Finds Doctors' Wording May Increase Anxiety in Patients with PCOS
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common gynecological endocrine disorder that affects ovarian function and may cause irregular periods, weight gain, and other physical and metabolic problems. Research suggests that the language doctors use when diagnosing PCOS may have lasting effects on patients' mental health.
University of Surrey researchers found that terms such as "raised" may increase body dissatisfaction and dieting, while "irregular" may trigger fertility anxiety. Although simple, these ambiguous words can prompt negative associations and affect long-term mental health and understanding of the condition.
The Power of Language: How Diagnostic Terms Affect Patients with PCOS
Professor of Health Psychology Jane Ogden said: "Diagnostic consultations often last only a few minutes, but the doctor's words during that time can shape how patients understand their condition and ultimately affect their physical and mental health."
The study surveyed 147 women with PCOS about satisfaction with diagnostic consultations, clinicians' language, and overall psychological well-being. It found:
Patients dissatisfied with diagnosis reported lower body-esteem, poorer quality of life, and more concern about future health.
More than a quarter were dissatisfied with how doctors addressed emotional distress and felt communication was poor.
"Raised" could cause concern about weight or hormone levels, while "irregular periods" could prompt assumptions about infertility and increase anxiety.
Patients often replay diagnostic conversations to understand their condition. Ambiguous wording may cause misunderstanding, excessive worry, and lasting psychological harm.
How Can Doctors Improve the Diagnostic Experience?
Clinicians should choose words carefully, avoid vague or anxiety-provoking language, and communicate more clearly and supportively.
Researchers proposed:
1. Avoid anxiety-provoking terms
For example, replace "raised hormone levels" with "your hormone levels fluctuate slightly, which is common in PCOS, and diet and lifestyle changes may help."
Replace "irregular periods" with "your cycles may be longer or variable, and there are measures that may help regulate them."
2. Give specific information rather than general statements
When hormone levels are high, explain the values, possible effects, and management options rather than saying only "raised."
3. Address emotions and provide psychological support
Because anxiety and depression are common after diagnosis, clinicians should ask how patients feel and offer support or referral when needed.
4. Build a strong clinician-patient relationship
Patients with a good relationship with their doctor often adapt better psychologically and report higher quality of life. Clinicians should listen to concerns and offer encouragement and support.
Conclusion: Language Shapes Health Perceptions
This was the first systematic study of how language used in PCOS diagnosis affects mental health. Researchers urged healthcare professionals to recognize these effects so patients receive both clear information and adequate support.
The study was published in the British Journal of General Practice.
Source:
Collected online