Phenomenological Study on the Lived Experience of Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome in Chile.

OBJECTIVE

To describe the lived experience of women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in central Chile.

MATERIAL AND

METHODS

Qualitative study with an interpretative phenomenological approach. Individual interviews were conducted with seven women diagnosed with PCOS. Participants were identified through key informants using purposive sampling. Data interpretation was performed through thematic analysis.

RESULTS

The lived experience highlights PCOS as a negative condition in their lives. The findings of this study were consolidated into two main categories, which describe the experience of discovering their diagnosis and what it means to live with PCOS.

CONCLUSION

It is essential to assess the mental health and quality of life of women with PCOS. Adolescents and adult women should receive adequate information about the syndrome, and their perspectives should be considered when determining the best management approach.