Women's perceptions about female reproductive system: A survey from an academic obstetrics and gynecology practice

Author Department

Ob/Gyn

Document Type

Article, Peer-reviewed

Publication Date

6-2014

Abstract

OBJECTIVE:

To assess women's knowledge about female reproductive system and the demographic factors that may influence their perceptions.

STUDY DESIGN:

In this cross-sectional study, all qualifying adult women at our academic practicewere asked to complete a self-administered anonymous questionnaire about the effects of femalereproductive system between June and August 2009. We assessed the accuracy of their knowledge and analyzed the effect of demographic factors.

RESULTS:

The majority of the 500 participants were in 18- to 59-year age range (93 %), Caucasian (81 %), married (56 %), college graduates (74 %) and had private insurance (82 %). Mean correct score was 63 ± 20 %. In univariate analysis, those respondents who were older, Caucasian, and had private insurance scored significantly higher (p < 0.05) When all the variables were entered in a fractional logit model, only age, race and reason for the visit remained as independent predictors for a better overall score in this survey. Twenty-nine percent of the participants thought hysterectomy included removal of ovaries and tubes. About a quarter of the respondents thought menstrual function would continue after hysterectomy. The question for whether removal of the uterus resulted in climacteric changes was correctly answered only by 34 %. While 59 % of women did not agree that removing the entire uterus eliminated the cervical cancer risk, 66 % concluded that they would continue to need Pap smears after total hysterectomy.

CONCLUSION:

Women's knowledge about female reproductive system is limited, especially for those who are younger and from a minority.

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