[Concerns of women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a qualitative study]

ABSTRACT

Polycystic ovary syndrome [PCOS] is one of the most common chronic endocrine disorders with a prevalence estimated to range between 4-25%, depending on the diagnostic criteria used. It has significant and diverse clinical consequences associated with reproductive, metabolic, psychological morbidity and some cancers. It is not clear how PCOS symptoms influences women's physical experiences and concerns. This qualitative study aimed to explain study the effects that life experiences and concerns women with polycystic ovary syndrome have. Twenty women, aged 18 to 39 years, diagnosed with PCOS were interviewed using semi-structured open interviews to reach data saturation. All the interviews were recorded and transcribed, and data were analysed using content analysis, with deductive and inductive methods. Four closely intertwined themes were disclosed Physical consequences of PCOS, fear of the future, economic burden of disease and coming to terms with a chronic condition. The results of our study suggest that healthcare professionals working with PCOS patients should consider providing peer support groups as a means to alleviate patients concern and to promote self management activities like lifestyle modification. Ideally, support groups should be designed to meet the patients support needs and expectations, and should be evaluated regularly