A Qualitative Study Exploring Women's Understanding and Experiences of Managing Hypertension in Primary Care.

Background: Hypertension in women is an important precursor to heart disease, and even when they are on antihypertensive medications, women have higher blood pressure, compared to men. This study aimed to use a theory-informed approach to understand the experiences of women living with hypertension in managing their condition within the primary care setting. Methods: We conducted virtual semistructured interviews, in February-June 2023, with Canadian women aged > 40 years who self-identified as experiencing hypertension. The interview guide was developed based on the Common-Sense Self-Regulation Model to explore the perceptions/experiences of women living with hypertension. Additionally, intersectionality questions were added. A deductive approach using the dimensions of the model was applied, and an inductive approach was used to identify themes within the dimensions. Two patient partners were involved in this study throughout the research. Results: The women interviewed had a good understanding of the causes of hypertension, and they strongly emphasized stress-induced causes. Their coping strategies included changing their diet and lifestyle choices, taking medications, measuring their blood pressure at home, and visiting their physician. Strong experiences were shared by the participants-of being dismissed as having "white coat" hypertension or nonadherence to medicines, and ageism. Many felt they had to be "armed with proof" and had to strongly advocate for themselves in order to not be dismissed. Conclusions: Women with hypertension expressed feelings of not being taken seriously, and the need to provide evidence to advocate for their management. Hypertension interventions need to be tailored to women and account for their intersectionality experiences.