Clinical Research Directory

Living With Chronic Kidney Disease Without Renal Replacement Therapy: Experience of Women of Childbearing Age

Sponsor: University Hospital, Caen

Summary

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects approximately 13% of the global population. This condition is often associated with comorbidities such as diabetes and hypertension. Although its prevalence increases with age, CKD can also affect younger individuals, particularly women of childbearing age. From the early stages, CKD may lead to female-specific clinical manifestations, such as reduced fertility, occurring at a key period of life. These clinical aspects may be accompanied by concerns regarding the transmission of hereditary nephropathy and can generate a significant psychological burden. However, current knowledge regarding the lived experience of young women of childbearing age with CKD remains limited, particularly in France. The main objective of this study is to explore the lived experience of young women with CKD not requiring renal replacement therapy. Lived experience is understood as the set of experiences related to CKD, including perceptions of the disease, its impact on daily life, and on future life plans. Twelve participants with CKD, not transplanted and not on dialysis, will be recruited and divided into two groups: six women with genetically inherited CKD and six women with non-genetic CKD. This grouping is justified by the fact that the etiology of the disease may profoundly influence lived experience. Genetic CKD is often associated with concerns regarding familial transmission and early medical follow-up, whereas non-genetic CKD may be perceived as an acquired condition occurring later in life. Data will be collected through semi-structured interviews based on a tailored interview guide. Transcripts will be analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA), which allows exploration of the meaning that each participant attributes to her experience. This is an exploratory pilot study aiming to document, for the first time in France, the lived experience of young women with CKD, with a secondary focus on the potential impact of genetic versus non-genetic etiology. Particular attention will be given to themes related to sexual and reproductive health. The findings will contribute to a better understanding of this under-researched population and may ultimately improve their clinical care.

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