Effect of a Digital Health Education Program on Quality of Life in Women With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Effect of a Digital Health Education Program on Quality of Life in Women With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: Randomized Controlled Trial

This single-blind randomized controlled trial evaluated the effectiveness of a digital health education program delivered through WhatsApp in improving the quality of life of women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Seventy women diagnosed with PCOS were enrolled from selected gynecology clinics in Imo State, Nigeria, and allocated to either an intervention group or a routine care control group. The intervention consisted of a four-week digital education program including 30 evidence-based educational messages. Quality of life was measured using the Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Quality of Life Questionnaire (PCOSQ) at baseline and one month after completion of the intervention.

Study Purpose

This study evaluated the effectiveness of a digital health education program delivered through WhatsApp in improving the quality of life of women diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

Study Design

This was a single-blind randomized controlled trial conducted in selected women's health wards and gynecology clinics in Imo State, Nigeria. Two clinics with comparable characteristics were selected. One clinic was assigned to the intervention group and the other to the routine care control group.

Participants

A total of 70 women with PCOS who met the eligibility criteria participated in the study. Thirty-five participants were included in each study group.

Intervention

Participants in the intervention group received a four-week digital health education program through WhatsApp consisting of 30 structured educational messages covering PCOS, lifestyle modification, nutrition, physical activity, stress management, fertility, and prevention of long-term complications. Participants could communicate with the researchers throughout the intervention to ask questions and receive clarification.

Participants in the control group received routine care provided by the participating clinics. After completion of data collection, the educational materials were made available to the control group.

Outcome Assessment

Quality of life was assessed using the Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Quality of Life Questionnaire (PCOSQ), a validated disease-specific instrument. Assessments were completed at baseline and one month after completion of the intervention.

Ethical Considerations

The study received approval from the Cyprus International University Ethics Review Board (Approval No. EKK25-26/19/01). The study was conducted in accordance with the ethical principles of the Declaration of Helsinki. Written informed consent was obtained from all participants before enrollment.

Statistical Analysis

Data will be analyzed using SPSS software. Descriptive statistics, independent t-tests, paired t-tests, chi-square tests, and other appropriate statistical tests will be performed. A two-sided P value of less than 0.05 will be considered statistically significant.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Women diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome
2. Women aged 18-45 years
3. Women attending the selected women's health wards and gynecology clinics during the study period
4. Willingness to participate and provide written informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Withdrawal of consent at any stage of the study
2. Failure to complete either the pre-test or post-test assessments
3. Incomplete participation in the educational intervention program