Working Females’ Knowledge, Attitude, and Intention at Beni-Suef University regarding Oocyte Cryopreservation: Effect of an Educational Program

Research Abstract

Background: Nowadays, an emerging oocyte freezing technology can offer some protection for women against the loss of fertility with aging and may be advised or recommended as a remedy for infertility issues. Aim: The current study was conducted to evaluate the effect of an educational program on females working at Beni-Suef University regarding knowledge, attitude, and intention regarding oocyte cryopreservation. Subjects and Methods: Design: A quasi-experimental design was used. Sample and Settings: A study from Beni-Suef University on a purposive sample consisted of 334 working females at Beni-Suef University. Tools: Four data collection tools were used to carry out the current study: (I): A Structured Interviewing Questionnaire Sheet; (II): Females' knowledge regarding oocyte cryopreservation; (III): Females' attitudes regarding oocyte cryopreservation; (IV): Females' intention regarding oocyte cryopreservation. Results: It reveals that 72.8% & 51.8% of the studied sample delayed marriage or childbearing to complete their studies or work. After program implementation, knowledge improved from 8.62±3.78 to 9.21±2.24. Females’ attitude toward oocyte preservation after program implementation improved to 48.52±4.66 compared to 36.83±4.87 preprogram. Working females’ intention regarding oocyte preservation after program implementation is 21.89±2.15 as compared to 19.74±2.98 preprogram. Using the chi-square test revealed highly significant statistical differences between females’ overall knowledge, attitude, and intentions pre- and postprogram implementation (P=0.000). Conclusion: Based on the findings of the present study, it can be concluded that after program implementation, the studied female workers at Beni-Suef University had marked improvement in knowledge, attitude, and intention regarding oocyte cryopreservation compared to before program implementation. Recommendations: To increase knowledge about fertility preservation and its possible advantages for future quality of life, oocyte cryopreservation should be incorporated into premarital counseling in various maternity and child health (MCH) facilities.

Research Keywords

Knowledge, Attitude, Intention, Oocyte Cryopreservation, Educational Program