Knowledge and attitude of reproductive-aged women towards planned oocyte cryopreservation in the United Arab Emirates.

Abstract

Delayed conception is associated with a decline in oocyte number and quality. Oocyte cryopreservation techniques are used for medical or non-medical (elective) reasons. We aim to assess the knowledge and attitudes towards planned oocyte cryopreservation (POC) among reproductive-aged women in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and to investigate the factors interfering with their decisions. A cross-sectional study on 422 women (18-38years) living in the UAE, using an online questionnaire with three sections: sociodemographic, knowledge, and attitudes towards POC. 91.2% of participants have heard of POC, 84.1% hold a bachelor's degree or higher, 65.4% with medical background, 54.3% employed, and 79.2% live in Sharjah and Dubai. Consideration of POC was significantly associated with age (p = 0.011), employment (p = 0.002), the Emirates they live (p < 0.001), and if they have heard of POC (p = 0.036). Mean knowledge score was 44.44%, which was significantly higher among those considering POC (49.66% vs. 40.55%), and social media was their main source of information. About 57% will not consider POC, mainly due to cost, cultural issues, and safety. Determinants of knowledge score were marital status (B = 0.44; 95%CI: 0.09-0.79; p value = 0.014) and education level (B = 0.35; 95%CI: 0.13-0.58; p value = 0.002), and after adjustment, only the education level remained significantly associated with knowledge score (B = 0.24; 95%CI: 0.01-0.47; p value = 0.042). Despite many participants being motivated to undergo POC, majority had poor knowledge, and cost was the main barrier. The main determinant of the knowledge score was education level. Awareness among couples of consequences of delaying childbearing and comprehensive information from medical practitioners are highly needed.