Attitudes and knowledge about hysterectomy: a study of women in Mmabtho.

Thirty women aged 18 to 50 years (mean age = 28) completed a questionnaire measuring attitudes and knowledge about hysterectomy. The results showed that almost 60 percent of the respondents lacked knowledge about the procedure and that educational level made no significant difference to knowledge about hysterectomy. The data also indicated that many respondents were uncertain about hysterectomy. Analysis of the reasons given for their attitudes showed that many women held unfounded fears about the procedure. It is recommended that efforts be made to change the negative perception of hysterectomy.