“Take me seriously” : A qualitative interview study exploring healthcare experiences of endometriosis patients
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Date
Publisher
PLOS One
Abstract
Endometriosis is a chronic disease associated with stigmatisation and delayed diagnoses.
In order to create or improve positive healthcare encounters for patients, this
study aimed to explore the experiences of women with endometriosis and to identify
challenges and resources for these patients.
Qualitative, semi-structured interviews were conducted to explore lived experiences
of endometriosis patients. A purposive sampling strategy was used, and patients
were included if they had a laparoscopically confirmed diagnosis and at least one
contact with the healthcare system in Hesse, Germany. Interviews were conducted
between May and August 2023, transcribed, and analysed according to an interpretive
phenomenological approach using MAXQDA 24.
In total, 21 women aged 23–54 years (median: 32 years) were interviewed. Three
themes were identified, with ambivalence emerging as the common essence of
experiences. Patients reported that their experiences were influenced by the role of
the healthcare provider, described as either a source of support or an inhibitor in the
treatment process. Additionally, patients reported that provider-
patient-communication
was characterised by both trivialisation and dismissal of symptoms, as well as
empathic, encouraging interactions. Limits in the healthcare system, such as the allocation
of specialised care, and resources like increased awareness of endometriosis,
represented systemic influences on experiences.
This study provides an insight into the ambivalent nature of healthcare experiences from the perspective of endometriosis patients and contributes to a better understanding of patients’ needs in healthcare encounters, which may help to create a more positive healthcare experience for them.
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Except where otherwised noted, this item's license is described as Attribution 4.0 International