Knowledge, attitude, and perception of women towards medical versus surgical management of abnormal uterine bleeding: A cross-sectional descriptive study.

Dr.Volukula Poorna Pranitha  Chandrika; Dr.Tekupudi  Manasa; Dr. Varada A.  Hasamnis

doi:10.51168/sjhrafrica.v6i6.2006

Authors

Dr.Volukula Poorna Pranitha Chandrika 1Postgraduate, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Konaseema Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Foundation, Amalapuram, Andhra Pradesh, India
Dr.Tekupudi Manasa Assistant Professor, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Great Eastern Medical School, Srikakulam, Andhra Pradesh, India
Dr. Varada A. Hasamnis Assistant Professor , Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Konaseema Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Foundation , Amalapuram, Andhra Pradesh, India

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.51168/sjhrafrica.v6i6.2006

Keywords:

Abnormal uterine bleeding, treatment preference, patient perception, medical management, surgical intervention, women’s health

Abstract

Background: Abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB) significantly affects the quality of life in reproductive-age women. Despite the availability of both medical and surgical treatments, decision-making is often influenced by inadequate awareness and socio-cultural perceptions.

Objectives: To assess the knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions of women diagnosed with AUB regarding its medical and surgical management, and to evaluate their treatment preferences, concerns, and adherence.

Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted at the gynecology outpatient department of KIMS & RF, Amalapuram, Andhra Pradesh, from November 2024 to February 2025. A total of 136 women with diagnosed AUB were enrolled. Data were collected using a structured and validated questionnaire covering sociodemographic characteristics, awareness levels, treatment attitudes, and decision-making behavior. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS, with significance assessed via chi-square tests.

Results: Of the 136 participants, the majority (66.2%) were aged 31–50 years and predominantly married (77.2%). Awareness of AUB was high (94.1%), but only 66.2% were aware of both medical and surgical options. While 89.7% had a favorable view of surgical management, 66.2% preferred medical treatment, and 29.4% chose a combination approach. Treatment refusal was reported by 29.4%, primarily due to fear of surgery. Education was significantly associated with treatment preference (p = 0.044), and diagnosis with AUB was significantly associated with adherence (p < 0.001). Occupation influenced refusal of recommended management (p = 0.0165).

Conclusion: Despite high awareness of AUB, significant gaps exist in understanding treatment modalities. Cultural fears and misconceptions continue to influence patient decisions. Patient-specific counseling is imperative to improve informed decision-making and treatment compliance.

Recommendations: Integrate routine counseling addressing both treatment options, dispel misconceptions, enhance shared decision-making, and prioritize health education interventions during gynecological consultations for AUB.

Author Biographies

Dr.Volukula Poorna Pranitha Chandrika, 1Postgraduate, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Konaseema Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Foundation, Amalapuram, Andhra Pradesh, India

is currently pursuing her postgraduate training in Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Konaseema Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Foundation, Amalapuram, Andhra Pradesh, India. She obtained her MBBS degree from Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS), Ongole.

Her areas of interest include maternal-fetal medicine, reproductive endocrinology, and gynecologic laparoscopic procedures. As a committed postgraduate trainee, she is actively involved in clinical care, academic learning, and departmental research initiatives. ORCID iD: https://orcid.org/0009-0001-4681-0274

Dr.Tekupudi Manasa, Assistant Professor, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Great Eastern Medical School, Srikakulam, Andhra Pradesh, India

is currently serving as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Great Eastern Medical School, Srikakulam, Andhra Pradesh, India. She earned her MBBS and M.S. in Obstetrics and Gynaecology from the prestigious Andhra Medical College, Visakhapatnam. Following her postgraduate training, she completed her Senior Residency at Konaseema Institute of Medical Sciences, Amalapuram, where she gained extensive clinical and teaching experience.

Her academic interests include high-risk obstetrics, infertility management, and evidence-based approaches to women’s health. She is actively involved in undergraduate medical education and contributes to clinical training and academic mentoring.ORCID iD: https://orcid.org/0009-0002-9468-9461

Dr. Varada A. Hasamnis, Assistant Professor , Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Konaseema Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Foundation , Amalapuram, Andhra Pradesh, India

is currently serving as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at the Konaseema Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Foundation, Amalapuram, Andhra Pradesh, India. She obtained her MBBS degree from Dr. D.Y. Patil Medical College, Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra, followed by a Diploma in Obstetrics and Gynaecology from Lokmanya Tilak Municipal Medical College, Mumbai. She further enhanced her academic and clinical expertise by completing a Fellowship in Midwifery and a Diploma in Family Planning from the College of Physicians and Surgeons, Mumbai. With over two decades of extensive clinical experience in women's health, Dr. Hasamnis has developed a strong academic and research portfolio. She has authored 25 scientific publications in reputed medical journals, reflecting her commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous professional development. ORCID iD: https://orcid.org 0009-0002-8860-7183

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