Open AccessA phenomenological study to explore the experiences of U gandan women that have undergone transvaginal ultrasound
Author(s) -
Mubuuke Aloysius Gonzaga
Publication year - 2014
Publication title -
journal of medical radiation sciences
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.484
H-Index - 18
eISSN - 2051-3909
pISSN - 2051-3895
DOI - 10.1002/jmrs.54
Subject(s) - embarrassment , thematic analysis , anxiety , transvaginal ultrasound , exploratory research , interpretative phenomenological analysis , psychology , vulnerability (computing) , medicine , phenomenological method , qualitative research , social psychology , psychiatry , ultrasound , radiology , sociology , computer security , epistemology , anthropology , computer science , social science , philosophy
Transvaginal ultrasound ( TVUS ) is an important examination of the female pelvis that involves the transducer being inserted into the vagina to obtain more detailed images of the pelvic organs. Unfortunately, this examination has received mixed experiences from the women who have undergone it. This study set out to explore the lived experiences of Ugandan women who have undergone TVUS . Methods It was a phenomenological exploratory study involving 20 women in Uganda that had previously undergone TVUS . Data were collected using in‐depth individual interviews. The responses from the women were audio‐recorded and later transcribed. Thematic analysis was used to interpret and make meaning of the data collected. Results Analysis of data revealed mostly negative experiences of the women who were included in this study. Key words from the participating women that illustrated the negative experiences included: fear, vulnerability, guilt, anxiety and embarrassment. It was also observed that these initial negative experiences are likely to reduce the women's acceptability and compliance to TVUS even when it is needed for better clinical management. Data were categorised into the following three thematic areas: (1) broken communication , (2) anxiety and discomfort and (3) cultural influence . Conclusion Women in this study portrayed negative experiences of undergoing TVUS . Key suggestions like informed consent are recommended to improve compliance of the women to this type of procedure.