Subjective Experiences of “Cognitive Fog” in Women with PCOS: Lived Accounts of Neuropsychological Symptoms with Identity and Coping

Tanishka Dhir; Samita Sharma

Subjective Experiences of “Cognitive Fog” in Women with PCOS: Lived Accounts of Neuropsychological Symptoms with Identity and Coping

Author(s)	Ms. Tanishka Dhir, Dr. Samita Sharma
Country	India
Abstract	Abstract Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a complex endocrine disorder affecting women’s physical and psychological well-being. In addition to hormonal and metabolic symptoms, most women complain of having a cognitive fog, which is defined as impairments in attention, memory, and executive functioning. This paper examines subjective experiences of cognitive fog among women with PCOS, considering lived experiences of neuropsychological symptoms and the effects of these symptoms on identity and coping mechanisms. In-depth interviews were carried out with women having PCOS using a qualitative phenomenological approach. Thematic analysis showed that the participants, more often than not, had mental cloudiness, memory lapses, and a lack of concentration, which influenced their academic, occupation, and social lives. These mental problems were combined with frustration, decreased self-esteem, and distorted self-identity. The participants used different coping strategies, such as planning, self-care, and social support, to cope with daily functioning. The results indicate a strong neuropsychological and psychosocial influence of cognitive fog in PCOS and emphasize the necessity of comprehensive clinical interventions with consideration of cognitive and emotional health.
Keywords	PCOS, cognitive fog, neuropsychological symptoms, lived experiences, identity, coping strategies, qualitative research
Published In	Volume 8, Issue 3, May-June 2026
Published On	2026-05-23

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Subjective Experiences of “Cognitive Fog” in Women with PCOS: Lived Accounts of Neuropsychological Symptoms with Identity and Coping

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