Effectiveness of Benson’s Relaxation Technique In Stressed PCOD Women

Abstract

Background: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent endocrinological disorder in women, causing metabolic dysfunction and body composition changes. As of June 30, 2022, WHO estimates indicate over 116 million women (3.4%) globally are affected by PCOS. Stress, defined as worry and mental tension from difficult situations, is a major contributor to reproductive dysfunction. Reports increasingly highlight stress's role in PCOS manifestation. The study aims to assess the Benson relaxation technique's effectiveness in alleviating stress in women with PCOS. Aim: To determine the effectiveness of Benson's relaxation technique in stressed PCOD. Methodology: Study Design: Experimental study, Study setting: Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Medical College and Hospital, Department of Physiotherapy, Bangalore -560045 Sample design: Purposive sampling. Sample size: 30 patients. Result: A significant reduction in stress among PCOD women was observed with the use of Benson’s Relaxation Technique. The pre-perceived stress score before the technique was 22.63±5.26, decreasing to 18.23±5.98 post-intervention. The enhancement score was 4.40, with a t-value of 11.08. The analysis indicates a substantial stress reduction among PCOD women using Benson’s Relaxation Technique, as assessed through the Perceived Stress Scale (p<0.001). Conclusion: The study conclusively demonstrated the efficacy of Benson's Relaxation Technique in alleviating stress among women with PCOD. The analysis revealed a significant shift in stress levels, with 33.4% transitioning from high to moderate stress, 30.3% from moderate to low, and 30% maintaining moderate stress. Only 3.3% had low stress persisting, and the same percentage had persistent high stress. The pre-intervention stress score was 22.63526, decreasing to 18.2315.98 post-intervention, yielding a noteworthy enhancement score of 4.40. This signifies a statistically significant reduction in perceived stress (p<0.001), supported by a t-value of 11.08. KEYWORDS: Benson’s relaxation technique, PCOD, Perceived Stress Scale Stress.