Exploring Uncertainties Associated with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

About 3.7 – 22.5% of women in India are afflicted with polycystic ovarian syndrome. Owing to its idiosyncratic nature from its diagnostic features to treatment plans, it becomes vital to explore the uncertainties that women might come across in their journey. The current study aims to gain an in-depth understanding of the experiences of women with polycystic ovarian syndrome in the context of uncertainties associated with it. The sample size of the study was 7 participants (n=7). Through a latent approach to thematic analysis, this paper categorizes the qualitative data into three themes: Scientific Issues of Uncertainty, Practical Issues of Uncertainty, and Personal Issues of Uncertainty. Further, these issues are extensively discussed as potential variables in the intention-behavioural gap, one of the key problems in adherence to treatment plans. Validation strategies and Reliability were conducted to ensure the credibility of the research.