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Gjellestad M, Haraldstad K, Enehaug H, Helmersen M. Women's Health and Working Life: A Scoping Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:1080. [PMID: 36673834 PMCID: PMC9859470 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20021080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Revised: 01/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Women's health matters for participation in working life. The objective of this study was to explore female physiology in a work-life context and to investigate possible associations between women's health, sickness absence and work ability. A scoping review was conducted to develop a systematic overview of the current research and to identify knowledge gaps. The search strategy was developed through a population, concept and context (PCC) model, and three areas of women's health were identified for investigation in the context of work. A total of 5798 articles were screened by title and abstract and 274 articles were screened by full text; 130 articles were included in the review. The material included research from 19 countries; the majority of the studies used quantitative methods. The results showed an impact on the occupational setting and an association between sickness absence, work ability and all three areas of women's health, but a holistic and overall perspective on female biology in the work context is missing. This review calls for more knowledge on health and work and possible gender differences in this regard. Women's health and working life involve a complex connection that has the potential to develop new knowledge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marianne Gjellestad
- Department of Nutrition and Public Health, Faculty of Health and Sport Sciences, University of Agder, 4604 Kristiansand, Norway
| | - Kristin Haraldstad
- Department of Health and Nursing, Faculty of Health and Sport Sciences, University of Agder, 4604 Kristiansand, Norway
| | - Heidi Enehaug
- Work Research Institute, Center for Welfare and Labour Research, Oslo Metropolitan University, 0176 Oslo, Norway
| | - Migle Helmersen
- Department of Nutrition and Public Health, Faculty of Health and Sport Sciences, University of Agder, 4604 Kristiansand, Norway
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Ricoy-Cano AJ, Cortés-Pérez I, Del Carmen Martín-Cano M, De La Fuente-Robles YM. Impact of Fibromyalgia Syndrome on Female Sexual Function: A Systematic Review With Meta-analysis. J Clin Rheumatol 2022; 28:e574-e582. [PMID: 34262004 DOI: 10.1097/rhu.0000000000001758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to examine sexual dysfuntion in women diagnosed with FMS compared with healthy controls. METHODS A systematic review with meta-analysis was performed. The literature search was conducted using PubMed Medline, Scopus, Web of Science, CINAHL, SciELO, and PsycINFO PROQUEST until February 2021. Observational studies with 2 groups (women with FMS and healthy controls) that assessed sexual function were included. Pooled effect was calculated using Cohen standardized mean difference (SMD) and its 95% confidence interval (CI) in a random-effects model. RESULTS Twelve studies were included comprising 1367 women (766 diagnosed with FMS and 601 healthy controls). The methodological quality of the included studies was moderate, according to the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Our findings showed a significant sexual dysfunction in women diagnosed with FMS (SMD = 1.72; 95% CI, 1.18-2.26; p < 0.001). In addition, the secondary outcomes more affected in women with FMS were sexual satisfaction (SMD = -2.09; 95% CI, -2.83 to -1.36; p < 0.001) and the pain during sexual relations (SMD = -1.97; 95% CI, -2.81 to -1.12; p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Women with FMS showed a significant sexual dysfunction and other related sexual difficulties, such as increase in sexual pain and a decreased sexual desire or sexual satisfaction, compared with healthy women.
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Mukhida K, Carroll W, Arseneault R. Does work have to be so painful? A review of the literature examining the effects of fibromyalgia on the working experience from the patient perspective. CANADIAN JOURNAL OF PAIN-REVUE CANADIENNE DE LA DOULEUR 2020; 4:268-286. [PMID: 33987505 PMCID: PMC7951172 DOI: 10.1080/24740527.2020.1820858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Background Chronic pain conditions, such as fibromyalgia, adversely affect individuals’ abilities to work. Aim The aim of this study was to examine, from the perspective of patients, the effects that fibromyalgia symptoms had on their ability to work, the challenges that they encountered in the workplace that did not foster their continued employment, and the types of modifications to their work or workplace that they thought would facilitate their productivity and ability to work. Methods A scoping review method, applying techniques of systematic review, was used to conduct a research synthesis of the literature regarding fibromyalgia and work that looked at this issue from the patient perspective. Results A variety of themes emerged from the analysis and could be broadly categorized into (1) the work experience was a challenging one with which to cope; (2) relationships were strained at work; (3) clinical symptoms had repercussions on subjects’ attitudes toward work and the relation to life outside of work; and (4) a variety of possible solutions were considered to help subjects better cope with fibromyalgia and work. Conclusions Strategies that potentially could foster continued employment of patients with fibromyalgia include those at the micro, meso, and macro levels. Health care providers can support patients’ employment goals by collaborating with patients and their employers, dispelling stigma regarding the illness, and providing practical and specific advice regarding workplace accommodations.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Mukhida
- Pain Management Unit, Department of Anesthesiology, Pain Management and Perioperative Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - W Carroll
- Department of Management, Sobey School of Business, Saint Mary's University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - R Arseneault
- Department of Management, Sobey School of Business, Saint Mary's University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
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Lev M, Goldner L. Work volition in women with fibromyalgia: a phenomenological analysis. Disabil Rehabil 2020; 44:2267-2275. [PMID: 33043704 DOI: 10.1080/09638288.2020.1827050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
AIMS AND OBJECTIVES This study develops a working model characterizing work volition among women suffering from fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) to better understand the vocational challenges these women face, the drivers behind their ambitions, and the coping strategies they implement. MATERIALS AND METHODS A qualitative phenomenological study was conducted consisting of semi-structured interviews with 15 women diagnosed with FMS who are currently employed. The interviews were analyzed according to the principles of Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. RESULTS The findings point to the enormous efforts these women make to ration their energy and preserve their careers by implementing calming cognitive, social, and solution-focused strategies. Several motivational factors governing work volition emerged from the interviews: (1) a drive for esteem, power, and control; (2) achieving self-actualization and a sense of meaning in life by nurturing of others; (3) preserving a sense of existence through their career achievements; and (4) pushing beyond their physical limits. They reported implementing four calming, cognitive-focused, social support, and solution-focused strategies to reduce pain. CONCLUSIONS Work plays an important role in grounding these women's sense of vitality and normalcy. This is coupled with their enormous efforts to pursue and preserve their careers by calming the mind and the body. Paradoxically, however, these efforts appear to aggravate their physical exhaustion and distress. The complexity of maintaining a career when diagnosed with FMS as well as issues of general physical and mental health are discussed.Implications for rehabilitationCareer has an existential significance for women with Fibromyalgia.Motivational factors for work volition were identified; these include ambition for esteem, the obtaining of meaning, and gaining a sense of existence.Enormous efforts have been taken to save energy and preserve careers.Women are trapped between their desire to work and the need to conserve energy.Body-mind interventions are recommended for women's rehabilitation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maayan Lev
- School of Creative Art Therapies, Emili Sagol Creative Arts Research Center, Faculty of Social Welfare and Health Sciences, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - Limor Goldner
- School of Creative Art Therapies, Emili Sagol Creative Arts Research Center, Faculty of Social Welfare and Health Sciences, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
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Juuso P, Skär L, Söderberg S. Recovery despite everyday pain: Women's experiences of living with whiplash-associated disorder. Musculoskeletal Care 2020; 18:20-28. [PMID: 31917514 DOI: 10.1002/msc.1434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2019] [Revised: 09/18/2019] [Accepted: 09/19/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Living with whiplash-associated disorders (WAD) means living every day under the influence of pain and limitations. As the incidence of WAD and the related intensity of pain are somewhat higher among women than men, the aim of the present study was to describe women's experiences of living with WAD. METHODS A purposive sample of seven women participated in individual in-depth qualitative interviews, the transcripts of which were subjected to qualitative content analysis. RESULTS The results of the analysis suggested six themes of women's experiences with WAD: living with unpredictable pain; trying to manage the pain; living with limitations; being unable to work as before; needing support and understanding; and learning to live with limitations. The findings showed that unpredictable pain limited women's strength to engage in activities of daily life and be as active as before. Support and understanding were important for their ability to manage changes in their daily lives. CONCLUSIONS Pain considerably affects the daily lives of women with WAD, particularly by limiting their ability to perform activities and to enjoy their professional and social lives. As women with WAD need support with managing their daily lives, nurses and other healthcare personnel should adopt a person-centred approach, in order to support such women according to their individual needs and circumstances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Päivi Juuso
- Division of Nursing, Department of Health Science, Luleå University of Technology, Luleå, Sweden
| | - Lisa Skär
- Department of Health, Blekinge Institute of Technology, Karlskrona, Sweden
| | - Siv Söderberg
- Department of Nursing Sciences, Mid Sweden University, Östersund, Sweden
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Grant M, O-Beirne-Elliman J, Froud R, Underwood M, Seers K. The work of return to work. Challenges of returning to work when you have chronic pain: a meta-ethnography. BMJ Open 2019; 9:e025743. [PMID: 31227529 PMCID: PMC6596973 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-025743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
AIMS To understand obstacles to returning to work, as perceived by people with chronic non-malignant pain and as perceived by employers, and to develop a conceptual model. DESIGN Synthesis of qualitative research using meta-ethnography. DATA SOURCES Eleven bibliographic databases from inception to April 2017 supplemented by citation tracking. REVIEW METHODS We used the methods of meta-ethnography. We identified concepts and conceptual categories, and developed a conceptual model and line of argument. RESULTS We included 41 studies. We identified three core categories in the conceptual model: managing pain, managing work relationships and making workplace adjustments. All were influenced by societal expectations in relation to work, self (self-belief, self-efficacy, legitimacy, autonomy and the meaning of work for the individual), health/illness/pain representations, prereturn to work support and rehabilitation, and system factors (healthcare, workplace and social security). A mismatch of expectations between the individual with pain and the workplace contributed to a feeling of being judged and difficulties asking for help. The ability to navigate obstacles and negotiate change underpinned mastering return to work despite the pain. Where this ability was not apparent, there could be a downward spiral resulting in not working. CONCLUSIONS For people with chronic pain, and for their employers, navigating obstacles to return to work entails balancing the needs of (1) the person with chronic pain, (2) work colleagues and (3) the employing organisation. Managing pain, managing work relationships and making workplace adjustments appear to be central, but not straightforward, and require substantial effort to culminate in a successful return to work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary Grant
- Clinical Trials Unit, University of Warwick, Warwick Medical School, Coventry, UK
| | | | - Robert Froud
- Clinical Trials Unit, University of Warwick, Warwick Medical School, Coventry, UK
- Department of Health Sciences, Kristiania University College, Oslo, Norway
| | - Martin Underwood
- Clinical Trials Unit, University of Warwick, Warwick Medical School, Coventry, UK
| | - Kate Seers
- Warwick Research in Nursing, University of Warwick, Warwick Medical School, Coventry, UK
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Galvez-Sánchez CM, Duschek S, Reyes Del Paso GA. Psychological impact of fibromyalgia: current perspectives. Psychol Res Behav Manag 2019; 12:117-127. [PMID: 30858740 PMCID: PMC6386210 DOI: 10.2147/prbm.s178240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 156] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) is a chronic disorder characterized by widespread and persistent musculoskeletal pain and other frequent symptoms such as fatigue, insomnia, morning stiffness, cognitive impairment, depression, and anxiety. FMS is also accompanied by different comorbidities like irritable bowel syndrome and chronic fatigue syndrome. Although some factors like negative events, stressful environments, or physical/emotional traumas may act as predisposing conditions, the etiology of FMS remains unknown. There is evidence of a high prevalence of psychiatric comorbidities in FMS (especially depression, anxiety, borderline personality, obsessive-compulsive personality, and post-traumatic stress disorder), which are associated with a worse clinical profile. There is also evidence of high levels of negative affect, neuroticism, perfectionism, stress, anger, and alexithymia in FMS patients. High harm avoidance together with high self-transcendence, low cooperativeness, and low self-directedness have been reported as temperament and character features in FMS patients, respectively. Additionally, FMS patients tend to have a negative self-image and body image perception, as well as low self-esteem and perceived self-efficacy. FMS reduces functioning in physical, psychological, and social spheres, and also has a negative impact on cognitive performance, personal relationships (including sexuality and parenting), work, and activities of daily life. In some cases, FMS patients show suicidal ideation, suicide attempts, and consummated suicide. FMS patients perceive the illness as a stigmatized and invisible disorder, and this negative perception hinders their ability to adapt to the disease. Psychological interventions may constitute a beneficial complement to pharmacological treatments in order to improve clinical symptoms and reduce the impact of FMS on health-related quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Stefan Duschek
- Department of Psychology, University for Health Sciences, Medical Informatics and Technology, Hall in Tirol, Austria
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Palstam A, Mannerkorpi K. Work Ability in Fibromyalgia: An Update in the 21st Century. Curr Rheumatol Rev 2017; 13:180-187. [PMID: 28464770 PMCID: PMC5759171 DOI: 10.2174/1573397113666170502152955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2017] [Revised: 04/24/2017] [Accepted: 04/25/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fibromyalgia (FM) is characterized by persistent widespread pain, increased pain sensitivity and tenderness. People with FM also report activity limitations and impaired work ability. OBJECTIVE This article aims to compile the findings of recently published research on work ability in people with fibromyalgia, and to present how work ability is influenced by various aspects. METHODS A systematic search of the literature published from the year 2000 and onwards was conducted. Thirtyfour articles were included in the review. RESULT Symptom severity was found to influence work ability in people with FM. Physically demanding jobs and work tasks were especially troublesome and were reported to constitute higher risks pof work disability. Working people with FM seemed to hold a careful balancing act to manage the risk of overload where well-functioning strategies such as making a career change, working part-time, and developing personal skills were necessary for managing work, in the short- and long term. The support of management and colleagues enabled people with FM to manage the risk of overload at work. Treatment studies evaluating work disability as outcome in FM are scarce. None of the included studies presented any effects on measures of sick-leave or work disability compared with a control group. CONCLUSION More studies of treatment effects on outcomes related to work ability in people with FM, and more longitudinal studies to explore long-term effects of symptoms on work ability and sick leave, are needed in order to be able to plan evidence based rehabilitation to improve or maintain work ability in people with FM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annie Palstam
- Department of Health and Rehabilitation, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Kaisa Mannerkorpi
- Department of Health and Rehabilitation, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Sweden
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