Giving a diagnosis of Premature Ovarian Insufficiency: The Importance of Good Communication. Names of Co-authors

Objective: To explore the significance of a diagnosis of Premature Ovarian Insufficiency on patient experiences with the condition. Design: A qualitative study using semi-structured interviews and thematic analysis. Setting: Participants were recruited from across the UK and interviewed remotely using Microsoft Teams. Population: Sixteen women aged 18 and above with a confirmed diagnosis of POI. Methods: Participants took part in in-depth interviews exploring their experiences of living with POI, including receiving a POI diagnosis. Main Outcome Methods: Interviews were recorded, transcribed, and analysed thematically. Results: Three key themes were identified: (1) Delivery of information about diagnosis by healthcare professionals (2) Participants reactions to a diagnosis of POI (3) POI framed as a fertility issue only. Participants reported considerable distress when diagnoses were delivered abruptly, digitally, or without appropriate support. Conversely, face-to-face, empathetic communication was described as validating and empowering. A consistent concern was the narrow clinical framing of POI as a fertility issue, with insufficient attention paid to long-term health risks, HRT, and emotional wellbeing. Conclusion: The way in which POI is communicated has a significant and lasting impact on women's experiences and outcomes. A compassionate, holistic, and person-centred approach to diagnosis is essential. Healthcare professionals must embrace updated international guidelines, prioritise multidisciplinary care, and address existing disparities in access and support.