Reproductive concerns and associated factors among female chronic kidney diseases patients: a Multi‐Center Cross‐Sectional Study

Abstract

Abstract Aim The study aimed to investigate the current status of reproductive concerns and explore the associated factors among young female chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients. Design A multi‐center cross‐sectional study was designed. Methods The study was conducted in six representative tertiary hospitals across southwest China. A total of 295 female Chronic kidney disease patients between 18–45 years of age completed a 20 min, web‐based survey, which included demographics and disease‐related information questionnaire, Reproductive Concerns Scale, Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7 (GAD‐7) instrument and Patient Health Questionnaire 9 (PHQ‐9) instrument. Result The survey total collected 270 valid questionnaires. The mean reproductive concern score was 54.39 ± 10.90 (out of a maximum of 90), with the mean scores for sub‐scales ranging from 7.80 ± 1.69 to 10.44 ± 1.85. Multiple regression analysis showed that those with higher reproductive concerns were more likely to have pregnancy intentions, to be in Chronic kidney disease stages 1–3, and to have a higher GAD‐7 score. This study offered further evidence of the need for improved education and emotional support surrounding reproductive concerns among young Chinese women with Chronic kidney disease.

Keywords

• Chronic kidney disease
• factors
• fertility intention
• reproductive concerns