Date of Conferral

2022

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Public Health

Advisor

Jennifer Oliphant

Abstract

AbstractOver 600,000 hysterectomies are performed each year in the United States. Studies have shown that African American women are disproportionately impacted by hysterectomy and that most African American women treated with hysterectomy are young and of childbearing age. As a result, some African American women’s spouses have negative perceptions about the surgery. The purpose of this study was to examine the impact of hysterectomy on self-esteem or satisfaction among African American women and feelings of partner rejection after a hysterectomy. Sociometer theory (the study of self-esteem) was used to examine an association between hysterectomy and self-esteem or satisfaction. The study also explored the association between hysterectomy and spousal rejection. A quantitative cross-sectional survey design was used to research the feelings and perceptions of African American women and their spouses after hysterectomy. A convenience sample of 128 African American women took a self-administered survey using Survey Monkey. Data were analyzed by an independent f-test, analysis of covariance (fixed effects, main effects, and interactions). The study showed no significant association between hysterectomy and self-esteem. However, a strong correlation exists between hysterectomy and spousal rejection among African American women after a hysterectomy. This study may be beneficial to Black or African American women who have had a hysterectomy. It may also assist hospitals and OBGYN doctors in providing adequate information and educational programs to African American women and their spouses or significant others before a hysterectomy is performed.

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