Experiences of women of childbearing age with diabetes skin pruritus: An interpretative phenomenological analysis

Abstract

Aim

This study aims to explore the experiences and feelings of women of childbearing age with diabetes skin pruritus after being diagnosed.

Methods

Using the Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis method, semi-structured interviews were conducted with women of childbearing age who suffer from diabetes skin pruritus, followed by data analysis.

Results

Three superordinate themes and eight subthemes were identified, including psychological distress (self-identity, lack of understanding from others, emotional damage and self-disgust), physical impairment (loss of bodily control, treatment challenges, impact on female sexual characteristics), and coping post-trauma (social withdrawal, active coping).

Conclusion

The physical and mental health of women of childbearing age with diabetes skin pruritus has been severely compromised, particularly their sense of self-worth as women of childbearing age. Despite this, they demonstrate a solid willingness to seek treatment. Therefore, it is recommended to strengthen research in this field, improve health education, establish online support platforms for sharing experiences, and enhance government oversight of social security measures. These initiatives will promote active treatment and recovery among patients, ultimately improving their quality of life.