Practice patterns and attitudes about treating abnormal uterine bleeding: a national survey of obstetricians and gynecologists.

OBJECTIVE

We sought to examine the practice patterns and attitudes of obstetricians and gynecologists surrounding treatment of abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB).

STUDY

DESIGN

We conducted a cross-sectional study of members of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Surveys, which were distributed using a sequential mixed method (both web- and mail-based) approach, included questions about practice characteristics, practice patterns, and knowledge about treatment options for AUB.

RESULTS

Of 802 questionnaires, 417 were returned (52%). The most commonly selected first-line choice for AUB treatment was combined oral contraceptives (97% anovulatory, 98% ovulatory). The levonorgestrel intrauterine system was the next most frequently selected option (63% anovulatory, 53% ovulatory). Respondents did not score high on questions about the effectiveness of treatments for AUB. Only 25% (n = 86) answered at least 2 of the 3 questions correctly.

CONCLUSION

Continued education is necessary to increase the utilization of the most effective treatment options for AUB.