Symtomen som begränsar livet : Kvinnors upplevelser och erfarenheter av att leva med polycystiskt ovarialsyndrom (PCOS)

Sammanfattning: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a chronic condition that affects 6-18 % of all fertile women, PCOS manifests itself through various clinical symptoms, such as hirsutism and obesity. It is also a contributing factor to irregular menstrual cycles, which has an impact on life and future pregnancies. The aim of the literature study was to describe the experiences of women living with PCOS. A systematic literature review was conducted, which resulted in the selection of ten scientific articles. The result of the study is based on three categories: The women’s self-image, the women’s physical and mental well-being and the women’s experience of support. The results of the literature study describe the way the women perceived themselves based on clinical symptoms such as hirsutism and obesity. The experience of the symptoms, the reduced fertility and the constant comparisons made with other women were based on society’s norms. This later on had an emotional impact on women´s physical and mental well-being. In conclusion the women found support through support groups, family members and information online. However, the women perceived a lack of support from healthcare professionals. If healthcare professionals can gain a greater understanding of how women with PCOS experience their symptoms, they can in this way contribute to more person-centred care.