Bridging the Gap between Medical Science and Communication: An Interpretive Analysis of Messages Portrayed on Endometriosis Websites.

<p>This study examined women's health messages found on ten endometriosis websites. Qualitative research methods were used to investigate messages available via Internet media about causes and treatments of endometriosis, particularly as they relate to the suggestion that hysterectomy and pregnancy are effective treatments. Messages about infertility, physician-patient communication, and accessibility were also examined. Findings indicate that the websites provided similar messages regarding the symptoms, causes, and treatments of endometriosis; results pertaining to infertility were mixed. Little information was available on methods of improving physician-patient communication. Most websites provided additional low-cost information while requiring minimal technological competency or additional software of site patrons. The results of this study have implications for future research in medical science and communication and reflect the importance of research on women's health communication. A detailed discussion of findings and suggestions for further research are offered. The author's own experiences with endometriosis are incorporated into the analysis.</p>

Name thesis:degree_name

MA (Master of Arts)

Level thesis:degree_level

Thesis - unrestricted

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Communication, Professional

Year dc:date.issued

2004

Author dc:creator

• Anderson, LaKesha Nichole

• Womens Health
• Endometriosis
• Internet Use
• Physician-Patient Communication
• Qualitative Methodology
• Lived Experience
• Communication
• Health Communication
• Social and Behavioral Sciences

Statement dc:rights

• Copyright by the authors.

Repository record dc:identifier

https://dc.etsu.edu/etd/883

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:dc.etsu.edu:etd-2040