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:
This research is being conducted as part of my master’s degree in health psychology dissertation. Research in this field of women’s health is important, as it can facilitate a deeper understanding of the experiences of female university students living with PMOS. This research aims to inform future practice by highlighting the opportunities and challenges faced by students with PMOS, as well as identifying ways their experiences and support system as may be improved.
What is the study about?
The purpose of this study is to explore the lived experiences of female university students living with PMOS. The study focuses on the physical and mental symptoms experienced, how these may affect daily functioning and student life, the coping strategies currently used, and degree of support received from healthcare services, universities, friends and family.
I am conducting this study as part of my master’s degree at Manchester Metropolitan University. This study has received ethical approval (ETHOS ID: 85201).
What is involved?
- A 1-1 online semi-structured interview via Microsoft Teams
- An interview expected to last between 40 minutes to an hour
- Will be audio recorded and transcribed for analysis
- All identities will remain anonymous and confidential
Who can take part?
Inclusion:
- Diagnosed/currently being investigated for PMOS
- Aged 18-49
- University student
- English speaking
Exclusion:
- Currently pregnant/gave birth in the last 6 months
- Diagnosed with a severe psychiatric disorder (e.g. schizophrenia, psychosis)
Why take part?
Your participation to this study will be valued greatly, as it will provide insight into the real-life experiences of student life alongside PMOS. The study also aims to better understand experiences with healthcare services, university support systems, and personal coping strategies. The findings may contribute towards improving awareness, support, and future interventions for students living with PCOS.
How to get involved?
If you identify yourself as eligible and would like to take part, please email me at: Antonia.callea@stu.mmu.ac.uk. The deadline for participation is the 16th of July.
Thank you for expressing any interest for taking part in this study, it is greatly appreciated. If you know anyone who may be eligible for this research, feel free to share this information with them.
If you would like to receive more information about this study, please contact me at: Antonia.callea@stu.mmu.ac.uk.
Verity - The PCOS charity 