Hi, I’m Himani, a final-year Human Geography student studying at Cardiff University. My dissertation will explore experiences of PCOS to investigate and compare femininity and cultures in the UK and India. Whilst the social sciences have begun to investigate women’s experiences with PCOS, there is a lack of cross-cultural comparison in PCOS studies between the Western and Eastern worlds, which my study aims to address. This research aims to give a voice to a condition that isn’t widely discussed in terms of everyday experiences, but has a significant impact on all of our lives.
As somebody with PCOS myself, I would love to speak with you! I invite you to join a focus group consisting of around 4-5 women with the condition.
Who can take part?
Women with PCOS (age 18+ and living in the UK).
What will be involved?
We will meet in an online focus group, for around an hour, to discuss and share our experiences and perspectives around PCOS. Themes will include, but are not limited to, impacts on our daily lives, varying symptoms of PCOS, experiences with healthcare professionals, societal and cultural perceptions and how PCOS affects our gender identity. These are potentially sensitive topics, but you will be anonymous, are free to stop the process at any point without providing a reason and I can signpost you to appropriate support as required.
What are the next steps?
If you are interested in taking part please drop me an email (arorah1@cardiff.ac.uk). I will get back to you with a more detailed information sheet and consent form, and you will have the chance to ask any questions.
You are free to withdraw from the study at any point without giving reason.
Verity - The PCOS charity 