Factors Associated with Delayed Consultation for Anorectal Symptoms in Women: A Retrospective Observational Study
Year: 2026
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Objectives: Women with anorectal symptoms often delay medical consultation because of embarrassment and psychological barriers. Although similar delays in consultation have been reported in pelvic floor disorders and lower urinary tract symptoms, factors associated with delayed consultation in proctology remain unclear. This study aimed to identify factors associated with delayed consultation among women with anorectal symptoms. Methods: This retrospective observational study included consecutive new female patients presenting with anorectal symptoms at a women-only proctology clinic between January and December 2025. Delayed consultation was defined as seeking medical consultation ≥3 months after symptom onset. Clinical records and pre-consultation web-based questionnaires were reviewed. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed. Results: A total of 4,427 patients were analyzed (mean age, 43.9 years), and delayed consultation was observed in 2,611 patients (59.0%). The most commonly reported reasons were embarrassment (79.8%), preference for a female physician (76.6%), expectation of spontaneous improvement (55.4%), and over-the-counter self-treatment (29.4%). Multivariate analysis identified embarrassment (OR 7.94), preference for a female physician (OR 6.79), and expectation of spontaneous improvement (OR 2.97) as the strongest independent factors. Severe pain was negatively associated (OR 0.49). Conclusions: Delayed consultation for anorectal symptoms was common among women and was strongly influenced by psychological barriers and physician gender preference.
Author: Satoka Nasu
Language: English
Subfield: Urology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $1,507
OpenAlex ID: W7223474130