57: Women′s Preferences for AUB Treatment and their Definition of a Successful Outcome Compared to Ob/Gyn Recommendations

Abstract

To compare the preferences for treatment of AUB and definition of treatment success between women and their Ob/Gyns. Opinion research conducted March 14–18, 2005. Margin of error for a sample of 400 respondents is ±4.9% of that actually reported. Opinion research conducted March 14–18, 2005. Margin of error for a sample of 400 respondents is ±4.9% of that actually reported. Four hundred women ages 35–49 years. Average age was 41.9 years. Women were treated 22 months ago, on average, had waited an average of 16 months before speaking to their doctor. Of women treated for AUB who told their Ob/Gyn what result they wanted, 80% said it was to reduce their level of bleeding and 18% said it was amenorrhea (one-third had already agreed to a hysterectomy). Similarly 77% of Ob/Gyns told these patients success was less bleeding and (21%) of Ob/Gyns told these patients amenorrhea defined success. Forty-four percent preferred some type of medical procedure; they report that over half (54%) of their Ob/Gyns recommend one. Significantly more women treated 2+ years ago vs. treated 1–2 years ago chose hysterectomy (34% vs. 17%). Significantly more Ob/Gyns recommended D&Cs 2 + years ago vs. 2 years ago or less (37% vs. 11%). For the small sample of women (n=40) who said their Ob/Gyn recommended GEA, 70% were told by their Ob/Gyns that treatment success was a reduced level of bleeding vs. 23% who said amenorrhea; 48% of these women reacted positively to the idea of amenorrhea, 23% negatively and 31% were neutral or not sure. 98% agree that women should be given choices on AUB treatment. Our data suggest that patient preferences must be fully explored to determine what AUB treatment best fits needs/expectations. We note that the majority of women want less bleeding and the minority wants amenorrhea.