GPPCOS
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common lifelong metabolic condition with serious associated comorbidities. Evidence points to a delay in diagnosis and inconsistency in the information provided to women with PCOS.
Method - An online survey to elicit women’s experiences of general practice PCOS care was promoted by charities and BBC Radio Leicester. The survey was accessible online between January 2018 and November 2018. A subset of responders undertook a semi-structured telephone interview to provide more in-depth data.
Results - A total of 323 women completed the survey (average age 35.4 years) and semi-structured interviews were conducted with 11 women.
Key Findings - Many women had experienced mental health problems associated with their PCOS symptoms, but had not discussed these with the GP. Many were unable to recall any discussion about associated comorbidities with the GP. From the experiences of the women it appears that PCOS in general practice is not viewed as a long-term condition with an increased risk of comorbidities.
Further research should explore GPs’ awareness of comorbidities and the differences in PCOS care experiences.
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Funded by |
Scientific Foundation Board RCGP |
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PI |
Sarah Hillman |
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Research team members |
Jeremy Dale, Carol Bryce, Rishi Caleyachetty |
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Dates – from and to |
January 2018 - December 2019 |