Abstract
Endometriosis is related to adverse quality of life (QoL) and wellbeing outcomes. The way in which endometriosis is perceived by individuals experiencing the condition has not been directly considered, yet illness perceptions (IPs) are predictors of QoL in several chronic conditions. This research aims to gain an understanding of the IPs held by individuals experiencing endometriosis and their impact on QoL. Semi-structured, one-to-one interviews with 30 UK-based participants sought to gain an understanding of participant experiences and perceptions linked to endometriosis. Three themes were constructed through reflexive thematic analysis: a life disrupted; lost sense of self; and complex emotional responses. Largely negative IPs were held by individuals experiencing endometriosis which, along with endometriosis-specific symptoms, fuelled fears for the future and reduced QoL. IP-based interventions may support the QoL of those experiencing endometriosis whilst effective treatment is sought.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 1157-1171 |
| Number of pages | 15 |
| Journal | Journal of Health Psychology |
| Volume | 28 |
| Issue number | 12 |
| Early online date | 26 Jun 2023 |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Published - 31 Oct 2023 |
Funding
The authors disclosed receipt of the following financial support for the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article: This project is funded by a Scottish Graduate School for Social Science Economic and Social Research Council Studentship award (Project Reference: 2434262).
Keywords
- endometriosis
- wellbeing
- quality-of-life
- Illness perceptions
- qualitative