Relationship between loci of control and health-promoting behaviors in Pakistani women with polycystic ovary syndrome: coping strategies as mediators

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: Understanding the factors that promote healthy lifestyle behaviors in women with polycystic ovary syndrome is of substantial importance. Health-promoting lifestyle behaviors (HPLB) have been observed to be effective in managing various symptoms related to PCOS. This study aimed to examine the relationship between loci of control and health-promoting lifestyle behaviors in Pakistani women with polycystic ovary syndrome and the mediating role of coping strategies. METHOD: A correlational study was carried out with 145 unmarried women with polycystic ovary syndrome diagnosed by a gynecologist using the Rotterdam Criteria of 2003 (M age = 24.75 years). Participants were recruited from public sector hospitals in Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan and a series of hierarchical regression analyses were used to analyze results. RESULTS: Findings suggest that women with internal and powerful others locus of control use more active practical coping strategies and less active distractive coping strategies. These women also get more involved in health-promoting behaviors. On the other hand, those with a high level of chance locus of control use less active practical coping strategies and more active distractive coping strategies. In turn, they engage less in health-promoting behaviors. CONCLUSION: Health professionals should consider the effects of different types of locus of control and coping strategies when planning interventions for women with polycystic ovary syndrome.