Knowledge, attitudes, and practices of patients with endometriosis regarding endometriosis surgery and postoperative care in Liaoning Province, China: a cross-sectional analysis.

BACKGROUND

Surgical intervention is the main treatment for endometriosis, and effective postoperative care is crucial for long-term health. This study examined the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of patients with endometriosis in Liaoning Province, China, regarding surgery and postoperative care.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study included patients with endometriosis at the First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University from July 2024 to February 2025. Participants provided informed consent, and a self-designed questionnaire was used collected socio-demographic data and assessed KAP scores.

RESULTS

A total of 417 endometriosis patients completed the survey, with a mean age of 35.34 ± 9.22 years and a response rate of 99.04%. The mean scores for knowledge, attitudes, and practices were 13.73 ± 3.97 (possible range: 0-30), 41.65 ± 3.31 (possible range: 11-55), and 28.22 ± 3.18 (possible range: 7-35), respectively. Positive correlations were observed between knowledge and attitude (r = 0.105, P = 0.033), knowledge and practice (r = 0.175, P < 0.001), and attitude and practice (r = 0.100, P = 0.041). Multivariate Logistic analysis revealed that knowledge (OR = 1.11, 95% CI: 1.05-1.17, P < 0.001) was positively associated with practice, while age showed a negative relationship (OR = 0.97, 95% CI: 0.95-0.99, P = 0.008). SEM analysis indicated a direct effect of knowledge on attitude (β = 0.587, P = 0.003).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with endometriosis in Liaoning showed significant knowledge gaps but had positive attitudes and practice towards surgery and postoperative care. Educational interventions are essential to improve their understanding and reinforce these attitudes.