Co-creating a yoga program for women diagnosed with gynecologic cancer: a consensus study

Abstract

Purpose

Yoga may be uniquely suited to address bio-psycho-social concerns among adults with gynecologic cancer because it can be tailored to individuals’ needs and can help shift focus inward towards self-reflection, body appreciation, and gratitude. This study describes the collaborative process guided by the Knowledge-to-Action framework used to develop a yoga program for adults diagnosed with gynecologic cancer and inform a feasibility trial.

Methods

In 3 collaborative phases, yoga instructors and women diagnosed with gynecologic cancer formulated recommendations for a yoga program and evaluated the co-created program.

Results

The program proposed is 12 weeks in length and offers two 60-min group-based Hatha yoga classes/week to five to seven participants/class, online or in person, with optional supplemental features. Overall, participants deemed the co-created program and instructor guidebook to be reflective of their needs and preferences, though they provided feedback to refine the compatibility, performability, accessibility, risk precautions, and value of the program as well as the instructor guidebook.

Conclusion

The feasibility, acceptability, and benefits of the program are being assessed in an ongoing feasibility trial. If deemed feasible and acceptable, and the potential for enhancing patient-reported outcomes is observed, further investigation will focus on larger-scale trials to determine its value for broader implementation.