Abstract
Fertility preservation (FP) for patients with cancer is an emerging field. With the advancement of technology, patients may face a complex decision-making process about whether to preserve fertility. The purpose of this article is to explore how young women with cancer perceive patient–provider communication in FP decision making. In this study, 25 women between the ages of 18 and 39 were interviewed retrospectively. They were interviewed one time to learn about their decision-making process related to FP. Results of this analysis indicate that patients seek support and involvement from providers throughout the process of decision making. They prefer providers to be directive when referring to the fertility clinic. Later in the process, they expect a supportive style of communication from providers. Patient-accessible language, supportive and reassuring styles of communication, and an existing relationship with providers may enhance well-being of the patients.
Highlights
In 2010, an estimated one and a half million new cancer cases were diagnosed (American Cancer Society, 2010)
The purpose of this study is to gain an understanding of the communication process that occurs between young adult women with cancer and health care professionals during the time women are making decisions about Fertility preservation (FP)
Based on the clinical flow of FP treatment, responses were classified into three sets of communication with the provider
Summary
In 2010, an estimated one and a half million new cancer cases were diagnosed (American Cancer Society, 2010). Among those newly diagnosed, approximately 10% were younger than 45 years (Jensen, Morbeck, & Coddington, 2011). Every year in Canada and the United States, about 26,000 adolescents and young adults (AYA) between ages 15 and 29 years are diagnosed with cancer (Tonorezos & Oeffinger, 2011). The majority of AYA cancer patients will survive their primary cancer, many will develop other serious health problems (Tonorezos & Oeffinger, 2011). Young adults with cancer in one study indicated infertility problems to be a significant health issue leading to poor psychosocial outcomes (Schwartz et al, 2010)
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