Degree
Master of Clinical Science
Program
Family Medicine
Supervisor
Graham Reid
2nd Supervisor
Amanda Terry
Joint Supervisor
3rd Supervisor
John Jordan
Joint Supervisor
Abstract
This thesis explored women’s and family physicians’ experiences with Bio-identical Hormone Therapy (BHT). It aimed to develop a deeper understanding of women’s decision-making process in choosing this therapeutic modality, and the influence family physicians may have on this process. To capture the phenomenon under study, two complementary and sequential qualitative studies were conducted. The studies involved in-depth interviews with women using BHT and family physicians that care for this population. The collective findings of both studies demonstrated the complexity of menopause care. The findings illuminated the major factors involved in women’s BHT decision-making process. It also offered important information about the role of the family physician and the patient-physician relationship in the journey of women choosing to use BHT; in particular, the value placed on family physicians spending adequate time exploring women’s experiences, listening to their concerns and being open to the independence of their therapeutic choices.
Recommended Citation
AlWatban, Lemmese, "Bio-Identical Hormone Therapy: Understanding Women's Decision-Making Process and Family Physicians' Views" (2013). Electronic Thesis and Dissertation Repository. 1714.
https://ir.lib.uwo.ca/etd/1714