Abstract
Objectives: Several factors are linked to quality of life (QoL) detriments in individuals living with endometriosis, including pain and sub-fertility. Research has yet to draw upon the perspectives of individuals with endometriosis to explore the role of illness-related perceptions (IPs) in QoL. This paper aims to provide an in-depth, qualitative account of the lived experiences of individuals with endometriosis, specifically focusing on IPs and QoL.
Design: A qualitative study using an exploratory research design. Semi-structured, in-depth interviews were conducted.
Method: 30 individuals with a diagnosis of endometriosis participated in online interviews. Interviews were audio-recorded and transcriptions were managed with NVivo. A thematic analysis approach was taken, first categorising responses in line with pre-defined IP dimensions before additional themes were identified out-with a theoretical framework.
Preliminary results: Themes identified include: 1) feeling disbelieved and diagnostic delay; 2) powerlessness relating to symptoms and treatment; 3) fears for future; 4) impact on sense of self; 5) community and shared experience.
Current stage of work: Analysis is ongoing and is expected to be completed by May 2022.
Conclusions: Participants largely emphasised the adverse impact of endometriosis upon their lives, drawing upon a diverse and wide range of factors contributing to decreased QoL. IPs appear to be dynamic and changeable in relation to endometriosis and are influenced by experiences both within and out-with medical settings. The value of incorporating psychological interventions into the care of those living with endometriosis and the importance of gaining a sense of community and sharing experiences with others is emphasised.
Design: A qualitative study using an exploratory research design. Semi-structured, in-depth interviews were conducted.
Method: 30 individuals with a diagnosis of endometriosis participated in online interviews. Interviews were audio-recorded and transcriptions were managed with NVivo. A thematic analysis approach was taken, first categorising responses in line with pre-defined IP dimensions before additional themes were identified out-with a theoretical framework.
Preliminary results: Themes identified include: 1) feeling disbelieved and diagnostic delay; 2) powerlessness relating to symptoms and treatment; 3) fears for future; 4) impact on sense of self; 5) community and shared experience.
Current stage of work: Analysis is ongoing and is expected to be completed by May 2022.
Conclusions: Participants largely emphasised the adverse impact of endometriosis upon their lives, drawing upon a diverse and wide range of factors contributing to decreased QoL. IPs appear to be dynamic and changeable in relation to endometriosis and are influenced by experiences both within and out-with medical settings. The value of incorporating psychological interventions into the care of those living with endometriosis and the importance of gaining a sense of community and sharing experiences with others is emphasised.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Publication status | Published - 28 Jun 2022 |
| Event | BPS Division of Health Psychology Annual Conference - Marriot Hotel, Bristol, United Kingdom Duration: 29 Jun 2022 → 30 Jun 2022 https://www.emedevents.com/c/medical-conferences-2022/division-of-health-psychology-dhp-annual-conference-2022#:~:text=Division%20of%20Health%20Psychology%20(DHP)%20Annual%20Conference%202022%20is%20organized,Bristol%2C%20England%2C%20United%20Kingdom.&text=Additional%20details%20will%20be%20posted%20as%20soon%20as%20information%20is%20available. |
Conference
| Conference | BPS Division of Health Psychology Annual Conference |
|---|---|
| Country/Territory | United Kingdom |
| City | Bristol |
| Period | 29/06/22 → 30/06/22 |
| Internet address |
Keywords
- endometriosis
- illness perception
- qualitative