The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of cognitive intervention on myths about the uterus and anxiety in women undergoing a hysterectomy.

Subjects were admitted to G hospital in Busan for a hysterectomy. Of the subjects, 37 were in the experimental group and 36 were in the control group. Data was collected from December 1st, 2005 to February 28th, 2006. A hand-out, including knowledge about the uterus and the healing process, was used in the cognitive intervention. The tool for myths about the uterus had 10 questions developed by a researcher from previous research. In addition, the levels of anxiety(STAI) were measured. The data was analyzed by χ²-test, t-test, paired t-test, and pearson correlation coefficient with the SPSS 12.0/pc program.

After providing cognitive intervention, the level of belief in the myths about the uterus of the experimental group decreased significantly more than the control group. In addition, the level of anxiety of the experimental group decreased significantly more than the control group. There is a significant correlation between the myth about the uterus and anxiety.

Cognitive intervention is a useful nursing intervention that decreases anxiety in women undergoing a hysterectomy. It is recommended to further use the appropriate cognitive intervention in nursing practice.