The below blog post has been written by the research team, and details of how to participate in the research can be found at the bottom of this post. Verity have sighted the ethics approval granted for the recruitment of this study.
Long waiting times for gynaecological and reproductive healthcare can affect mental health, self-identity, and wellbeing, yet these experiences are often overlooked. This study seeks to give voice to those have experienced the impact of long waiting times for conditions such as, PCOS, endometriosis, or fertility related issues.
About the Study
This research is part of an Msc Counselling and Psychotherapy at the University of Salford. Using in-depth interviews, it explores how people make sense of the experience of waiting for gynaecological and/or reproductive healthcare — emotionally, psychologically, and physically. The study has received ethical approval from the University of Salford Health Ethics Committee.
What’s Involved?
- To take part you will need to complete a short online questionnaire and agree to take part in a one-to-one interview (around 60 minutes) via Zoom or Microsoft Teams at a time that’s convenient for you between now and October 2025.
- You choose what to share and can pause or stop at any time.
- The interview is audio-recorded and will be kept confidential.
- You’ll be offered follow-up resources and can request a summary of the findings when the research is complete in 2026.
Who Can Take Part?
You can take part if you are:
- Aged 18 or over
- Living in the UK
- Speak English
- Have female reproductive organs (e.g. uterus, ovaries, cervix)
- Have experienced a long or distressing wait for gynaecological or reproductive care (now or in the past)
- You can identify with any gender.
Why Take Part?
Your story matters. By sharing your experience, you’ll help raise awareness of how long waits affect people — especially those with PCOS and other conditions that are often poorly understood. There is no payment, but many people find it meaningful to be heard and know they’re contributing to better support in future.
How to Get Involved
If you are interested in getting involved or have any questions please email the researcher directly at r.e.stanners@edu.salford.ac.uk. There is no fixed deadline, but interviews will take place between July and October 2025.
About the Researcher(s)
Rachel Stanners is a qualified person-centred counsellor currently completing her MSc in Counselling and Psychotherapy at the University of Salford. She has worked in the areas of fertility and pregnancy loss and is passionate about improving support during periods of medical uncertainty — especially for those whose voices are often left out of mainstream research.
Closing & Contact
Thank you for your interest. Our hope is that through the sharing of stories we can shine a light on the unheard experience of waiting by so many patients. Please share this opportunity with others who may be eligible or interested.
For any questions, contact Rachel at r.e.stanners@edu.salford.ac.uk
Verity - The PCOS charity 
This is such an important study waiting for gynaecological care can really take a toll on both mental and physical health. I found SheMed’s blogs quite helpful for understanding my own experiences and learning what support is out there. Thanks for sharing this research opportunity.