Abstract

Background: Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a complex disorder with a group of symptoms that are found as a result of hormonal disturbance. It is one of the most common endocrinopathies, affecting about 5%-10% of women of reproductive age worldwide. The present study aimed at evaluating the awareness of PCOS among women of reproductive age in Al-Madinah Al-Munawarah city, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Methodology: A cross-sectional study was carried out in the Al-Madinah Al-Munawarah region, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, during the period from June 2018 to September 2019. The study targeted all women aged between 18 and 65 years. Data were collected using a web-based valid questionnaire conducted through social media.
Results: The study included 753 adult females, with a mean age of 25.5 ± 7.8 years. More than half (53.1%) were aware of PCOS. Most of them had adequate knowledge about the factors that minimize PCOS (97%), followed by symptoms (55%) and complications (51%). Approximately 80.5% of respondents knew that physical exercise reduces the risk of PCOS, and 77.3% recognized that weight reduction is an important factor to minimize the chances of developing PCOS. Regarding the participant's source of information, the most common source was the internet (43.2%), followed by the physicians (18.7%).
Conclusion: Awareness and knowledge of PCOS among women in Al-Madinah Al-Munawarah are acceptable; however, some aspects need to be improved through health education.

Key words: Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, awareness, women health, reproductive-age women.