Hysterectomy: The patient`s perspective

Objective: Importance of information provision by the gynaecologist and its effects on women`s decision making about hysterectomy. Study Design: Structured questionnaire and interview Setting: Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Jinnah Hospital, Lahore. Materials and Methods: A questionnaire was given to 50 women who had undergone hysterectomy for benign menstrual problems and information was collected. Main Outcome Measures: Women`s experience and satisfaction, with the communication and information provision by the doctor about her disease before hysterectomy. To assess the influence of that counseling on the decision-making process of hysterectomy. Results: Most of the women undergoing hysterectomy were between the age group of 40 - 45yrs (40%). Most common indication for hysterectomy was dysfunctional uterine bleeding (55%). 32% women reported optimal satisfaction with decision made. 57 highlighted sub-optimal aspects of decision-making process. 37% complained of deficiency in communication skills of doctors and 63%, stated that information provided were incomplete (P<.001). 11% had residual doubts about the appropriateness of hysterectomy. Conclusion: The efforts are required to ensure that women are adequately informed and involved in decision about gynecological treatment.