News and research, research request

Research request: Why do women with PMOS/PCOS struggle with diagnosis, support and long term management?

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. Please note that the condition previously known as PCOS is now referred to as PMOS; some researchers and clinicians may still use the term PCOS during this transition period.


Introduction 

We are inviting women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) to take part in a research study exploring experiences of diagnosis, care, and support. The aim of this research is to better understand the real-life challenges women with PCOS face and how healthcare services and support can be improved. The study is open to women aged 18-55 who have been diagnosed with PCOS in primary care and would like to share their experiences. 

About the Study

This study explores women’s experiences of living with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), including diagnosis, access to care, support needs, and interactions with health care services. By listening directly to women with PCOS, the research aims to identify gaps in care and opportunities to improve women-centred support and services. The study also explores how mobile technology could support more personalised approaches to PCOS management and care. The research is being conducted at King’s College London as part of an MSc research project focused on improving health outcomes for women with PCOS, and ethical approval is currently pending; all participants information will be handled confidentially and responsibly. 

What’s Involved? 

Participants will be invited to take part in one or more of the following activities: 

  • Complete a short online survey (approximately 10-15 minutes). Participants may choose to complete only the survey and do not have to take part in any further stages of the research.
  • Participate in an in-person focus group 8-10 participants (approximately 90-120 minutes)
  • Take part in one-to-one online interview (approximately 45 -60 minutes) 
  • Participation is voluntary, and all responses will be treated confidentially 

Who Can Take Part?

  • Are a woman aged 18-55
  • Have received a diagnosis of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) in primary care 
  • Are able to complete the online survey and/or take part in an interview or in-person focus group  

Why Take Part? 

By sharing your experience, you will help with improvement of understanding PCOS care in the UK and contribute to better support for women living with the condition. Your insights may also help inform more personalised approaches to PCOS management, including the use of mobile health technology an apps. Your voice matters and can help shape how future services and support are designed and delivered. 

How to Get Involved 

You can take part in the study by scanning the QR code on the poster, which will take you directly to the online survey. Or click the link below:

Understanding Women’s Experiences of PMOS/PCOS Care and the Potential of Digital Health Support

If you are interested in participating in an in-person focus group or a one-to-one interview, please contact the researcher by email at magda.patocka@kcl.ac.uk for more information. 

The deadline for participation is 16 June 2026. 

About the Researcher 

I am an MSc student in Women and Children’s Health at King’s College London and a registered nurse with a strong interest in improving women’s health. I was diagnosed with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) several years ago, and my personal experience has inspired me to advocate for better awareness, care, and support for women living with this condition. Through this research, I hope to contribute to developing more personalised approaches that help women with PCOS achieve the best possible quality of life. 

Closing & Contact

Thank you for your interest in this research. If you know someone who may eligible, please consider sharing this opportunity within your community to help ensure that the voices of women living with PCOS are heard. 

If you have any questions about the study, please feel free to contact magda.patocka@kcl.ac.uk

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