Body image concerns, disordered eating, and negative affect in women with and without gynecological conditions

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Background Research has suggested that some gynecological conditions are associated with body image, disordered eating behaviors, and mental health concerns. This has been studied in polycystic ovarian syndrome and endometriosis populations, but few have investigated these variables in a diverse cohort of conditions. Objectives We aimed to understand the relationship between the presence of gynecological conditions, body image, disordered eating, and negative affect. We also sought to understand the associations between the perceived impact of gynecological diagnoses and these mental health variables. Design This was a cross-sectional study. Methods We recruited a sample of women ( N = 235) with ( n = 127) and without ( n = 108) gynecological conditions. We examined body image concerns, disordered eating, depression, stress, and anxiety through online questionnaires. Participants self-reported the presence or absence of gynecological diagnoses and their impact. Results Hierarchical linear regression analyses controlling for age and race/ethnicity found the presence of a gynecological diagnosis was related to higher body image concerns and disordered eating. Results also indicated significant positive relationships between depression and stress and the presence of a gynecological diagnosis; however, no relationship was found for anxiety. Greater impact of gynecological diagnosis was associated with greater body image concerns, disordered eating, depression, stress, and anxiety. Conclusion The presence and impact of a gynecological condition related to worse mental health in the domains of body image, disordered eating, and negative affect. It may be that physical manifestations of a gynecological condition in conjunction with other risk factors for women elevate the chances of developing these outcomes, although causal research is needed to investigate this idea. Further clarity on the underlying mechanisms in these relationships could further advances in women’s health research and inform coordinated care.

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