The experiences and informational needs of women electing bariatric surgery
A qualitative content analysis of an online support forum
Bibliographic Data
| ID | 4227331 |
|---|---|
| Authors | Jeremy Lester (0009-0008-1823-6907, The University of Adelaide), Anna Chur-Hansen (0000-0002-2935-2689, The University of Adelaide) |
| Year | 2025 |
| Volume | 30 |
| Issue | 14 |
| Pages | 4333-4348 |
| Publication date | 2025-05-08 |
| Peer Reviewed | Yes |
| Open Access | Yes |
| Type | ARTICLE |
| Venue | Journal of Health Psychology (JOURNAL) |
| Journal identifiers | ISSN: 1359-1053 • E-ISSN: 1461-7277 |
| Publisher | SAGE Publications Inc (PUBLISHER) |
| DOI | 10.1177/13591053251337218 |
| PMID | 40337999 |
| OpenAlex | W4410210804 |
| Language | EN |
| References cited | 48 |
This study aimed to explore how women leveraged online peer support to discuss their experiences and seek information related to bariatric surgery. Specifically, it sought to determine whether women are adequately prepared for the unique challenges associated with bariatric surgery and identify potential areas for improving preoperative education and support. An online search identified the Bariatric Pal online forum and sub-forum The Gals Room , of which 289 posts were selected and analysed using conventional qualitative content analysis. Five categories were developed: Connection with Forum Community; Life After Bariatric Surgery; Physical Symptoms and Experiences; Healthcare Concerns and Experiences; and Psychological Experiences. The findings highlight gaps in preoperative education for women, particularly regarding reproductive health and emphasise the value of online peer support in coping with and managing chronic health conditions. Further research is needed to inform improvements in preoperative and postoperative support for individuals undergoing bariatric surgery
Content analysis · Coping (psychology · Medical education · Peer support · Psychiatry · Qualitative research · Social support · Bariatric Surgery and Outcomes · Body Contouring and Surgery · Medicine · Nursing · Obesity and Health Practices · Psychology · Social Psychology
| Citation velocity | historical |
|---|---|
| Highly cited | No |