Social construction of biopsychosocial and medical experiences of women with polycystic ovary syndrome.

AIM

To explore the perceived biopsychosocial and medical experiences of women with polycystic ovary syndrome, as presented in stories written by women on a social support website.

DESIGN

Qualitative descriptive using low inference content analysis, guided by the social construction of illness theoretical framework.

METHODS

In July 2018, 95 of 379 website stories were randomly selected. The stories were analysed, ending in September 2018.

RESULTS

Three major themes aligning with framework constructs were identified: Biopsychosocial struggles and management: "I can't even look in the mirror without wanting to cry," Sociocultural navigation: "I feel all alone and no one understands me." and Healthcare encounters: "I don't feel like I'm getting the help I need". These themes revealed that Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) has biological and experiential components, which exist independently of each other and hold social and cultural meanings.

CONCLUSION

Care for women with PCOS should be multidisciplinary, multidimensional, and multi-level to ameliorate biopsychosocial issues. Provider (physicians, nurse practitioners, physician assistants) education about PCOS is necessary to enhance timely diagnosis and implement individualized treatment strategies. Non-advanced practice nurses are in a unique position to have an impact on patient satisfaction and clinical outcomes by providing and reinforcing patient education, coordinating management processes, counselling via telephone or in-person appointments and facilitating referrals to ancillary providers. Evidence-based and accessible psychosocial supports and interventions will lead to improved self-esteem and effective coping skills, and reduced stigma-related stress. Lastly, policy changes are warranted to address access to care, health insurance inequities and inadequate funding for PCOS-related research.

IMPACT

Increased awareness of PCOS and its biopsychosocial aspects will aid providers with timely diagnosis and meaningful treatment plans. Women with PCOS will gain acknowledgment, acceptance, and insight towards health care and self-management.