Barriers and Enablers Influencing Dietetic Practice in the Management of Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome

Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS) is a common endocrine disorder affecting women of reproductive age. Current international evidence-based guidelines promote lifestyle management, including diet and nutrition, as first-line treatment strategies. Accredited nutrition professionals, such as dietitians, are therefore well placed to deliver such support. We aimed to investigate the barriers, facilitators and practice patterns of accredited dietetic professionals in the management of PMOS.

This was a mixed-methods, cross-sectional analysis of Australian dietitians using a self-administered online survey to collect: self-rated knowledge and confidence levels for PMOS care; perceived barriers and facilitators to clinical management; awareness and implementation of evidence-based guidelines; and current dietary management practices. Quantitative and qualitative data were analyzed in parallel, using both descriptive statistics and conventional content analysis.

Dietitians (n = 86) reported moderate levels of knowledge (n = 33; 38.4%) and confidence (n = 31; 36.5%). Perceived practice barriers included supporting women through weight management, lack of interprofessional collaboration and dietary misinformation. Facilitators to clinical management included the availability of evidence-based dietary approaches, professional development opportunities and clinical knowledge and experience. Manipulation of macronutrients, dietary patterns, individualized medical nutrition therapy and lifestyle and eating behaviors were identified as key dietary management approaches.

Moderate levels of knowledge and confidence were observed. However, ongoing barriers, including supporting women through weight management strategies, limited interprofessional collaboration and dietary misinformation, continue to contribute to inconsistent practice patterns. Our findings highlight the need for structured professional development and improved implementation of evidence-based PMOS guidelines in dietetic practice.