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
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) can have a significant impact on emotional wellbeing, yet little is known about how individuals experience psychological support during diagnosis and early treatment. This study aims to explore the experiences of adults aged 18 years and over with a formal PCOS diagnosis, focusing on the support they received, the support they felt was missing, and how care could be improved. The findings will contribute to a better understanding of the psychological support needs of people living with PCOS and may help inform more holistic, person-centred approaches to diagnosis, treatment, and support.
About the Study
This research is being conducted as part of an MSc Psychology dissertation at Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU). The study aims to explore individuals’ experiences of psychological support during the diagnosis and early treatment of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), including the emotional impact of diagnosis, the support offered by healthcare professionals, and any unmet support needs. Data will be collected through confidential online interviews with adults aged 18 years and over who have received a formal diagnosis of PCOS. The study has received ethical approval from the Liverpool John Moores University Research Ethics Committee and seeks to contribute to improving psychological support and person-centred care for individuals living with PCOS.
What’s Involved?
- Attend an online interview on Microsoft Teams
- The interview will take approximately 45-60 minutes.
- The interview will take online and will be audio recorded only.
Who Can Take Part?
You may be eligible to participate if you:
- Are aged 18 years or over.
- Have received a formal diagnosis of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) from a healthcare professional.
- Can speak and understand English sufficiently to participate in an interview.
- Are willing to take part in an online audio-recorded interview and provide informed consent.
There are no restrictions based on location, current treatment, or medication use. Individuals from any country are welcome to participate, provided they meet the eligibility criteria above.
Why Take Part?
By sharing your experiences, you will help improve understanding of the psychological and emotional support needs of individuals diagnosed with PCOS. The findings may help inform healthcare professionals and contribute to the development of more holistic, person-centred approaches to diagnosis and early treatment. While there is no financial incentive for participation, your contribution will help ensure that the voices and experiences of people living with PCOS are represented in future research and support initiatives.
How to Get Involved
If you are interested in taking part, please contact the researcher by email at H.Topal@2022.ljmu.ac.uk. You will then be provided with a Participant Information Sheet containing further details about the study, along with a consent form to review and complete before participation.
Eligible participants will be invited to take part in a confidential online interview lasting approximately 45–60 minutes at a time convenient to them.
Please note that recruitment for this study will close on 30 June 2026.
About the Researcher
The researcher is an MSc Psychology student at Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU) with a strong interest in health psychology and women’s reproductive health. This research forms part of their postgraduate dissertation and aims to better understand the experiences and support needs of individuals diagnosed with PCOS. Through this work, they hope to contribute to improving awareness of the psychological impact of PCOS and informing more holistic, person-centred care.
Closing & Contact
Thank you for your interest in this research. If you know someone who may be eligible and interested in taking part, please feel free to share this opportunity with them. If you have any questions about the study or would like further information, please contact Helin Topal at H.Topal@2022.ljmu.ac.uk or Dr Kathryn Bould at K.J.Bould@ljmu.ac.uk.
Verity - The PCOS charity 