HE35 - Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome
SCURS Disciplines
Medicine & Health Sciences
Document Type
General Poster
Invited Presentation Choice
Service-Learning — Oral
Abstract
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder associated with significant reproductive, metabolic, and psychosocial comorbidities that negatively impact quality of life. Despite growing awareness, many women with PCOS do not receive adequate screening for mental health or quality-of-life concerns during routine medical care. Clinical management often prioritizes hormonal, metabolic, and reproductive indicators, while psychosocial and functional challenges remain under-documented, potentially delaying early identification of participation barriers and supportive intervention. The purpose of this doctoral capstone project is to examine documentation practices related to mental health and quality-of-life concerns among individuals with PCOS through a retrospective chart review and to develop an occupational therapy informed provider toolkit to support interdisciplinary care. De-identified data will be extracted from eligible charts using a standardized REDCap abstraction tool to assess documentation patterns and referral practices. Findings will inform the development of a one-page referral pathway and documentation guidance aimed at improving recognition of functional and psychosocial needs and facilitating timely referral to occupational therapy and related services. Occupational therapy contributes a unique perspective by emphasizing how PCOS symptoms affect daily functioning, routines, and participation in meaningful activities. Through strategies such as energy conservation, stress management, habit development, and support for social participation and self-management, occupational therapists address mental health and quality-of-life impacts in ways that complement medical treatment. This project aims to promote more holistic PCOS care by strengthening recognition of psychosocial needs, improving documentation practices, and supporting interdisciplinary referral processes that enhance overall well-being and participation.
Keywords
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), Quality of Life, Mental health, Occupational therapy, Womens health
Start Date
10-4-2026 9:30 AM
Location
University Readiness Center Greatroom
End Date
10-4-2026 11:30 AM
HE35 - Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome
University Readiness Center Greatroom
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder associated with significant reproductive, metabolic, and psychosocial comorbidities that negatively impact quality of life. Despite growing awareness, many women with PCOS do not receive adequate screening for mental health or quality-of-life concerns during routine medical care. Clinical management often prioritizes hormonal, metabolic, and reproductive indicators, while psychosocial and functional challenges remain under-documented, potentially delaying early identification of participation barriers and supportive intervention. The purpose of this doctoral capstone project is to examine documentation practices related to mental health and quality-of-life concerns among individuals with PCOS through a retrospective chart review and to develop an occupational therapy informed provider toolkit to support interdisciplinary care. De-identified data will be extracted from eligible charts using a standardized REDCap abstraction tool to assess documentation patterns and referral practices. Findings will inform the development of a one-page referral pathway and documentation guidance aimed at improving recognition of functional and psychosocial needs and facilitating timely referral to occupational therapy and related services. Occupational therapy contributes a unique perspective by emphasizing how PCOS symptoms affect daily functioning, routines, and participation in meaningful activities. Through strategies such as energy conservation, stress management, habit development, and support for social participation and self-management, occupational therapists address mental health and quality-of-life impacts in ways that complement medical treatment. This project aims to promote more holistic PCOS care by strengthening recognition of psychosocial needs, improving documentation practices, and supporting interdisciplinary referral processes that enhance overall well-being and participation.