The Development Of A Theoretically Derived Visual Educational Tool For Communicating Benefits Of Exercise And Diet For Increasing Fertility In PCOS

Problem: There is a need to efficiently communicate health messages to women with PCOS in the management of their fertility. Background: PCOS is a common cause of infertility and creates uncertainty for women desiring a pregnancy. Health care providers do not effectively communicate the benefit of exercise and diet in increasing fertility. Interpersonal communication theory provides guidance for effective provider-patient communication. Methods: A quality improvement process included the review of the literature using the terms health communications, health education, picture based messages, framing theory, communication theory, AND PCOS for theoretical guidance. Four transcripts from an ongoing study related to PCOS were reviewed and analyzed for themes. The literature review and transcripts facilitated the development of the PCOS Fertility Education Tool (P-FET). Outcomes: Picture-based messages of PCOS treatment options with accompanying scripts were developed for future testing with people who live with PCOS and desire a pregnancy.