Stories of the cystorhood: exploring women’s experiences with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome: implications for education, self-perception, and medicalization

Abstract

The overarching purpose of this study is to explore the experiences of women with PCOS in more detail to provide further knowledge of the syndrome, to educate others, and reduce stigma – for all women, with or without Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS). PCOS occurs in five to 10 percent of women, yet the greater public is generally unaware of it. Biomedicine defines PCOS as an endocrine disorder caused by a hormonal imbalance in women, with symptoms including: irregular or complete lack of menstrual periods; reduced fertility; unwanted facial or body hair; and the potential for weight gain due to insulin resistance. This study explores the experiences of women from the following perspectives: self-perception, education, and medicalization. Using artsinformed inquiry, with the methods of painting, interviews, and life writing, these topics are explored with women with PCOS.