Examination of life experiences of women who have polycystic ovary syndrome diagnosis

Objectives: To determine what kind of problems do women with Polycystic ovary syndrome encounter and how their lifes get affected by this situation. Methods: This study is a qualitative study that is carried out by using phenomenological research design. Experimental group consists of, Söke health school of Aydın Adnan Menderes University, Söke Vocational Health High School, single women (26 person) with the PCOS diagnosis, who study in Söke Vocational School and meet the study criteria and have accepted to interview, married women (12 person) who have applied to Gynecology and Obstetrics Clinic of Söke State Hospital of Fehime Faik Kocagöz, diagnosed with PCOS and meet the study criteria and have accepted to interview. Interviews lasting minimum 7 minutes 53seconds and maximum 83 minutes have been made with the women by using face to face interview method, in the guidence of interview form consisting of 6 open ended questions and introductory information form. Qualitative content analysis of the obtained data has been carried out. Maxqda 2018 program has been used in the processing of interview data. Findings: It has been concluded that PCOS affects social, emotional, cognitive, physical and role functions of women at various levels and directs them to different coping behaviors. Result: PCOS is a health problem that affects every aspect of life of women and it is a disorder requiring social support. It is recommended to provide health education and counseling with a cultural-based approach to those who receive this diagnosis. Thus, both symptomatic relief and improvement of life quality can be ensured. Keywords: Polycystic ovary syndrome, experience, qualitative research