Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MSc)

Department

Kinesiology

Faculty/School

Faculty of Science

First Advisor

Dr. Jennifer Robertson-Wilson

Advisor Role

Thesis Supervisor

Abstract

Despite efforts to promote physical activity, many females in Canada do not meet recommended physical activity guidelines. For individuals with gynecological conditions such as endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), physical activity may aid in symptom management and improve daily functioning. Healthcare settings, including obstetrics and gynecology, represent an area of opportunity to promote physical activity among this population. This thesis aims to understand the physical activity promotion practices of Ontario-based Obstetricians and Gynecologists (OBGYNs) to patients with endometriosis and/or PCOS. A cross-sectional online survey was conducted to explore OBGYNs promotional practices and perceived factors influencing their engagement in physical activity promotion. Survey questions were developed using the Capability, Opportunity, Motivation and Behaviour (COM-B) model (Michie et al., 2011), as well as the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF) (Cane et al., 2012) and were adapted from previous works (Cunningham & O'Sullivan, 2021a; Huijg, Gebhardt, Crone, et al., 2014; Huijg, Gebhardt, Dusseldorp, et al., 2014). Results from twenty-three respondents indicated that most OBGYNs recognized the importance of physical activity for patients with these conditions. However, over a third rarely promote physical activity to their patients with endometriosis and/or PCOS. Although many somewhat agree to be familiar with physical activity guidelines, various reported barriers to promotional practices include limited resources, inadequate physical activity education and insufficient time during patient sessions. These findings highlight the need for accessible informational resources, educational supports, and referral opportunities to enhance physical activity promotion by OBGYNs to patients with endometriosis and/or PCOS, to broaden efforts in reducing physical inactivity among females in Canada.

Convocation Year

2026

Convocation Season

Spring

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