Reproductive health assessment in women with cancer: A pilot study

Abstract

19660 Background: Many women in the reproductive age group are diagnosed with cancer. Reproductive health issues remain an important concern in caring for these women. Based on a case series in our institution and a review of the literature, we found a paucity of literature and clinical acumen regarding reproductive health issues. The purpose of this study was to pilot a survey instrument to develop descriptive data on the reproductive goals of reproductive aged women (15–44yrs) presenting with cancer. Methods: A cross- sectional pilot survey study of 20 selected women diagnosed with various types of cancers presenting to Hematology-Oncology clinic of John.H.Stroger Jr. Hospital of Cook County, Chicago, from January through July 2006. A survey instrument was developed and performed a reproductive health assessment. Patients were interviewed about their obstetric/menstrual history, contraceptive motivations and choices as well as future child bearing options. Results: Of the 20 patients with mean age of 36.6 years who were surveyed, 90 % had breast cancer. Child bearing was completed by 50%, 45% desired future childbearing, 5% were unsure. Contraception was used by 55 %( n=11) of patients out of which 55 %(n=6) were using abstinence, 45% denied the use of any contraception. Amongst the patients who received chemotherapy with radiation and chemotherapy without radiation, 75% and 72.7% respectively continued to menstruate. Ten percent would continue pregnancy, if they become pregnant while on treatment. Conclusions: The result of this pilot study demonstrates some insight into the reproductive health needs and concerns of women diagnosed with cancer. A reproductive health assessment should be performed on all cancer patients who are in the reproductive age group. We plan a large prospective study providing a larger database that may aid in developing treatment plan. No significant financial relationships to disclose.