Learning Objective #1: Describe the major themes that emerged from the study of the lived experience of women diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome

Learning Objective #2: Describe the changes to practice that health care providers should make to provide optimal care to women with polycystic ovary syndrome

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Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder experienced by women of reproductive age. PCOS involves a constellation of symptoms that include hirsutism (excess hair on the body and face), acne, male pattern baldness, irregular menses, infertility, and obesity. The preponderance of research in the last decade that has addressed PCOS has focused on the pharmacological control of the troubling symptoms associated with this genetic condition. The outward signs of PCOS can lead to serious problems with a woman's body image and self-esteem, yet the majority of health care practitioners presently focus their efforts on the diagnosis and management of PCOS and often neglect to address the psychosocial dimensions. This may be explained in part by the paucity of research that addresses the experiences of women who face the troubling consequences associated with increased androgen production. To fill this identified gap in the research, a phenomenological study was conducted to uncover the meaning of the experience of living with PCOS. The inquiry focused on exploring and interpreting interview data of women's lived experiences. A purposive sample of 13 women, who had been previously diagnosed with PCOS, was interviewed and asked to respond to the following statement: “Please describe what it means to you to live with PCOS.” Analysis of the participants' transcribed responses revealed seven themes: (1)Identifying differences,(2)Wanting to be normal,(3)Searching for answers,(4)Gaining control,(5)Attempting to achieve femininity,(6)Letting go of guilt,and(7)Dealing with it. As health care practitioners gain research-based knowledge regarding issues that are important to women with PCOS, more appropriate health care services can be delivered. Through the development of appropriate interventions, patients may develop a more positive outlook on the syndrome, an improved body image, an increased self-esteem, and an enhanced sense of well-being.