Practice patterns of some gynaecologists in Malaysia with regards to prophylactic oophorectomy and hormone replacement therapy

This study aimed to look at the prevailing practice patterns of gynaecologists with regards to prophylactic oophorectomy and usage of hormone replacement therapy. Questionnaires were sent to the first 200 gynaecologists listed in the membership list of the Obstetrical and Gynaecological Society of Malaysia. The response rate was 30%. The results showed that most gynaecologists would perform prophylactic oophorectomy after the age of 49 years. The result was equivocal for the ages between 45 to 49 years. Of those who retained the ovaries at the age of 45 to the menopause, 55% did so because the ovaries were still functional. Almost all gynaecologists would prescribe hormone replacement therapy (HRT) after oophorectomy and the most commonly prescribed form was the oral type. Thirty-five per cent of gynaecologists claimed that more than 80% of their patients were compliant to HRT. The reasons perceived for the poor compliance were mainly poor knowledge and misconception.