Author(s): Kaleigh King Stone, Anna Benzely
Mentor(s): Brianna Magnusson
Institution BYU
ABSTRACT: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder, impacting 8-13% of reproductive-age women globally, with no agreed-upon diagnostic approach. It is the most prevalent cause of infertility among women. Our literature review revealed a lack of information on these women’s lived experiences with a PCOS diagnosis. Our research fills a gap in the current PCOS research, prompting further questions and investigation. We conducted 39 semi-structured interviews and created ten parent codes with various child codes. We analyzed interview transcripts using the qualitative framework method. Our poster focused on Gaslighting or Blame: Doctor Gaslighting and Medical Experience: Experience with Medical Providers to explore one of the main themes. We aimed to highlight these women’s stories and strived to understand why this may be their experience. Our results indicated that the majority of women experience negative provider experiences; some even reported instances of gaslighting by their provider. Among 28 transcripts, 147 quotes were coded under Medical Experience: Medical Experience with Providers and 49 under Gaslighting: Doctor Gaslighting. Many women also reported feelings of dismissal, frustrations with the treatment offered to them, and overall emotional distress regarding their provider experience. Healthcare providers are crucial in diagnosing and treating PCOS. Yet, many women report negative experiences that can be attributed to a lack of knowledge among professionals, resulting in poor treatment and dismissive attitudes. Inadequate treatment and communication lead many of these women to seek alternative forms of treatment and other sources of information and support. Better communication and understanding of PCOS are needed to help these women feel supported and improve their quality of care.