The benefits and harms of receiving a polycystic ovary syndrome diagnosis: a qualitative study of women's experiences.

ABSTRACT:

Study question

What are the benefits and harms of receiving a polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) diagnosis in a community sample of women, including impact on psychosocial wellbeing, lifestyle choices and behaviour?

Summary answer

Although some women benefit considerably from the diagnosis, such as through increased awareness and reassurance, women with minimal symptoms may experience more harm than benefit, including long-lasting anxiety and altered life plans.

What is known already

Disease labels can validate symptoms and play a vital role in understanding and coping with illness; however, they can also cause harm by evoking illness schemas about severity and permanence. Regarding PCOS, the diagnostic criteria have expanded over time to include women with milder pheno

SUBMITTER: Copp T 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6822814 | biostudies-literature | 2019

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature