A qualitative enquiry into patients鈥� experiences of long waiting times for gynaecological care
Please see recruitment poster here and Participant Information Sheet here.
The aim of the study
This study explores how long waits for gynaecological and reproductive care affect mental health, identity, and daily life. While the physical impact of delays is increasingly recognised, the emotional toll remains underexplored. By listening to lived experiences, the project aims to highlight this often-overlooked impact and help improve future support.
The research is part of an MSc dissertation at the University of Salford and has full ethical approval. I鈥檓 a qualified person-centred counsellor and have worked in NHS reproductive health, where I saw first-hand how long waits can leave patients emotionally stuck and unsupported.
Who can take part?
I am particularly keen to hear from UK-based individuals who:
鈼� Are aged 18 or over
鈼� Speak English
鈼� Have first-hand experience of female reproductive organs
鈼� Have experienced what felt like a long or distressing wait for any kind of gynaecological or reproductive treatment, diagnosis, or referral (e.g. for pain, bleeding, fertility, endometriosis, fibroids, surgery, etc.)
鈼� People of any gender identity are welcome
What鈥檚 involved?
Participation involves a one-to-one confidential interview conducted online (via Zoom or Teams), lasting approximately one hour. Participation is entirely voluntary.
Ethics
All contributions will be anonymous, and participants are free to share only what they feel comfortable discussing. The study has been designed with emotional wellbeing and participant choice as core priorities.
Contact Details
If you work with clients who might be interested, please share the recruitment flyer (link - see attachment) with them or any other channel you feel would be appropriate.
To find out more or express interest, please email:
馃搂 r.e.stanners@edu.salford.ac.uk