2 research outputs found
âBeing in Balanceâ: Self-Management Experiences Among Young Women with Type 1 Diabetes
Women possess characteristics and experiences unique and different from men. Biological processes such as puberty, menstruation, motherhood and menopause may present challenges to self-management for individuals living with type 1 (T1) diabetes mellitus. In this study, descriptive phenomenology was used to uncover the self-management experiences of nine women aged 22- 30 years living with T1 diabetes. Data collection and analysis occurred simultaneously and followed the methodical structure of van Manen (1997). Study findings revealed five themes: 1) elusiveness of control; 2) dualism of technology; 3) forecasting and maintaining routines; 4) dealing with the âups and downsâ; and, 5) interfacing with the health care team. The essence of the experience for participants revolved around trying to achieve a state of âbeing in balance.â For these young women, self-management encompassed a desire and need to be in balance with their life and blood sugar levels