Evaluation of sleep quality and daytime dysfunction using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index in women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: a cross-sectional study

Abstract

Introduction: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is frequently associated with sleep disturbances, including insomnia, fatigue, and poor overall sleep quality. However, component-wise evaluation using validated instruments remains underexplored in South Asian populations. Objective(s): To evaluate and compare sleep quality among women with PCOS and healthy controls using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). Methodology: This cross-sectional study recruited 62 women with PCOS and 31 age- and BMI-matched healthy controls from a tertiary care hospital in Islamabad, Pakistan. Sleep quality was assessed using the PSQI, which evaluates seven domains of sleep. Independent sample t-tests were applied for group comparisons, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. Results: The mean global PSQI scores were 6.14 ± 2.85 for PCOS patients and 5.92 ± 2.78 for controls, showing no significant difference (p=0.705). Among the seven components, only daytime dysfunction was significantly higher in the PCOS group (1.56 ± 0.89 vs. 0.94 ± 0.76, p=0.003). Other components, including sleep latency, duration, disturbances, and medication use, showed no significant differences (p > 0.05). Conclusion: Overall sleep quality did not differ significantly between groups. However, elevated daytime dysfunction in women with PCOS suggests subtle impairments with functional consequences. Incorporating targeted sleep assessments into PCOS management may enhance clinical outcomes.