A Mixed Methods Study of Hysterectomy in a U.S. Sample of Deaf Women Who Use American Sign Language

Abstract

Background: Hysterectomy is one of the most common procedures performed in the United States. Yet, we know nothing about deaf women's experiences with hysterectomy. The study aims to establish a prevalence of hysterectomy among deaf women and provide insight into the experiences of those who have undergone hysterectomy. Materials and Methods: Quantitative data ( n = 195; 27% Black, Indigenous, People of Color) were collected through a bilingual online patient-reported outcomes survey and reproductive health questions from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) between November 2019 and March 2020. Semistructured interviews were conducted between March and April 2021 with a smaller sample of deaf women who underwent hysterectomy. A multivariable logistic regression model identified the relationship between health care history and sociodemographic factors, while qualitative interview data were used to understand deaf women's experiences with hysterectomy. Results: Of the 195 deaf respondents, 34% underwent hysterectomy ( n = 67). Results indicated that the odds of hysterectomy increased for higher age (per year), being African American/Black or Latinx, being married or living with a partner, being overweight or obese, and if communicating with the doctor through English writing or others. Qualitative interviews were conducted with eight women who provided consent to participate. Although all women reported improved quality of life posthysterectomy, patient-centered experience and decision making before hysterectomy were highly dependent on access to communication, information sources, and social support. Conclusions: Prioritizing the needs of deaf women leading up to, during, and after hysterectomy has the potential to improve overall experience with hysterectomy and patient–clinician communication.