Abstract
BACKGROUND: Cryopreservation techniques for laboratory oocytes provide women with increased reproductive options, especially for those facing fertility challenges due to ovarian diseases. AIM: This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions of oocyte cryopreservation (OC) technology among women with ovarian diseases. DESIGN: A cross-sectional, quantitative study was conducted involving 202 women, aged 18-45, who were diagnosed with ovarian diseases. Participants were recruited from outpatient obstetrics and gynecology clinics at the Menoufia University Hospital and Shebin El-Kom Teaching Hospital. Data collection instruments included an online questionnaire, obstetric and gynecological history forms, and structured assessments of knowledge, perceptions, and attitudes toward oocyte cryopreservation. RESULTS: The findings revealed that 59.9% of the women had a moderate level of knowledge regarding oocyte cryopreservation. More than half (55.9%) demonstrated a negative attitude toward the technology, which significantly influenced their perceptions of it. In addition, a notable proportion of the participants reported experiencing infertility due to their ovarian condition. Among them, 37.6% stated that their disease had a substantial negative impact on their overall quality of life. CONCLUSION: The study revealed that a considerable proportion of women with ovarian diseases possessed inadequate knowledge of and had negative attitudes toward oocyte cryopreservation, which adversely affected their perceptions of the procedure. Furthermore, ovarian diseases were found to contribute to infertility and a reduced quality of life. These findings underscore the need for targeted health education programs to improve awareness of, attitudes toward, and understanding of fertility preservation options in this population.