Young women’s opinion about the possibility of predicting premature ovarian failure (POF): a qualitative study

Abstract

ENGLISH ABSTRACT

Title: Young women’s opinion about the possibility of predicting premature ovarian failure (POF).

Background: The serum levels of Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) can be used to predict the age when menopause will occur. When this occurs before the age of 40, it is called premature ovarian failure (POF). POF is influenced by a number of factors, including age, obesity, smoking, and alcohol consumption. In addition, highly educated women are more likely to seek medical help for infertility. The predictive value of AMH to predict POF has been investigated in quantitative research, but there is a lack of qualitative research exploring opinions on predicting POF. Research question: How do young women (18–30 years) with different educational levels perceive the possibility of predicting POF? Method: A generic qualitative design was conducted using fifteen face-to-face semi-structured interviews. Maximum variation in educational levels was achieved by purposeful sampling. The data was analysed using the Qualitative Analysis Guide of Leuven. Results: One overarching theme “possibility of predicting POF” and three interpretive themes “passive knowledge”, “preconditions”, and “future child wish” were identified. For all participants, the interview was the first encounter with the possibility of predicting POF. Overall, eight out of fifteen participants would undertake the AMH test to predict POF. Conclusion: This research provides insight into women’s opinions about the possibility of predicting POF. Most participants are interested in an AMH test regardless of their educational level. Implications of key findings: Further research should focus on increasing awareness around the possibility of predicting POF, especially for women with an increased risk of fertility issues. In addition, the research population could be comprehensive by including women between the ages of 25 and 40.